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You and me, we're sponges. We soak up knowledge and wisdom from anywhere we
can get it, from anyone who is willing to share it. Especially now with all
the uncertainty and funk that's in the air, we're searching for answers to
help point us in the "right" direction. Here's my concern: New technology,
for better or for worse, has created very accessible pedestals for popular
culture. Great for exchange of ideas. Though, it's the contrived, dumbed-down
junk food we're being fed that bums me out. The slick, glib messages that
we're getting from our movies and our music are motivated by profits rather
than personal expression. Today, entertainers are storyselling rather than
storytelling. Without vulnerability, contemporary entertainment lacks the
truth and the honesty we need to challenge our minds and to nurture our
souls.
That's why we're on a quest. We're searching for guides, who have the
courage to create and lead through inspired performance, and positive
"innervision". Soulsearch Productions serves as a foundation for
these guides- both musicians and moviemakers- to deliver their unique message.
We're dedicated to producing artful entertainment, which will offer fuel to
the interested and fill some of the void.
This Wednesday night at the Cutting Room is the first of hopefully many Soulsearch Nights, where we can showcase rootsy, organic, message-driven music.
On Wednesday, April 10 at The Cutting Room, 19 W. 24th St., NYC, Soulsearch Productions is showcasing Todd Horton (Ani DiFranco’s trumpet player), Smitty, and Louis Lepore.
10:00 pm - Todd Horton Quartet
Drawing on influences from jazz, funk, rock and African music, the Todd Horton Quartet fits seamlessly into any environment. Whether weaving sinuous lines through a funky backbeat or spinning out quietly intense phrases amidst an insistent swing, his music is propelled by an irresistible groove. By attaining the elusive goal of creative accessibility, Horton establishes an exciting benchmark for the future in jazz. His band features special guest Jacques Shwarzbart (of Eryka Badu and Roy Hargrove) on sax and flute, Rob Reich, Tim Givens, and Aaron Comess.
9:00 pm - Smitty with his band "Witch Hunt".
The music of Smitty explores organic soundscapes of Americana. Bluesy and profound, Smitty's acoustic and National guitar playing resonates with the influence of masters like Robert Johnson and Mississippi Fred McDowell. His electric playing references jazz, Chicago Blues, and early rock'n'roll, while creating a unique surf noir sound. Through simple melodies and unique tone, Smitty tells vibrant stories with his guitar that have irresistible force and timeless appeal. Smitty will feature Aaron Comess of Spin Doctors on drums, Tim Givens on bass, Rob Clores of "Janis" fame on keyboards, Todd Horton on trumpet, Serena Jost on Cello, and Heather Hardy of 'Lil Mama fame on violin.
8:00 pm - Louis Lepore
A powerful singer-songwriter with great lyrical range and sophisticated guitar work, Louis Lepore bears his soul through intimate ballads and heartfelt anthems of love and devotion. Always affectionate and rarely predictable, Lepore’s performances touch deep truths with luminous songs that emote compelling honesty and tenderness. Louie Lepore has played with Cherry Vanilla and Chris Whitley.
It is time for us to explore and search for answers that will cultivate the beauty in all of us.
Journey Inward. Soulsearch.
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