Hello World! I Wanna Be More!

Mark Daly and The Ravens 2024 photo by S. Wright

Hello World! Who doesn’t wanna be more? This song is the latest release by Mark Daly. I caught up with Mark Daly after he and his band, The Ravens, opened for Mr. Big.

Mark Daly and The Ravens 2024 photo by S. Wright

So what is Mr. Daly listening to? Mark quickly listed the bands:

Blue October, Highly Suspect, Aerosmith and Rod Stewart

Love this Blue October video!

Blue October- Oh My My

Mark recently gave a shout to The Struts on Instagram. It is no secret that they are one of my favorite bands too!

Photo by S. Wright 2023

Of course, we have to give a shout out to Mr. Big, fronted by Eric Martin, as well! This tour is said to be their final one. Shine is one of my favorites!

Mr. Big Shine

If you wanna know more about Mark Daly click here markdalyofficial.com. Do you have a favorite Mark Daly song? Check out the 603Melody Youtube 2024 playlist for more.

Thanks to Mr. Daly for taking the time to talk post show at the Tupelo Music Hall in Derry, NH!

Mark Daly with The Ravens 2024 photo by S. Wright

I always say one artist leads to another (musical or otherwise) so I should not have been surprised to see retunedjewelry.com products for sale at the merch table (reduce, reuse, recycle). I just so happened to be wearing their earrings that evening! It is a small world after all.

Thanks for checking in!

What are you listening to?

Stephanie

Follow me down the musical rabbit hole with 603Melody on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube!

Logo by Z. Stith

Hello World! Mr. David Mallett-Folk Poet

Dave Mallett and Mike Burd 2022 photo by S. Wright

Hello World!

Mr. David Mallett has been a long time favorite of mine! His classic song Inch By Inch is etched in my childhood memories. He is one of the first musicians I thought of as a storyteller. He can paint a picture with his lyrics. Mr. Mallett is also one of my husband’s favorite artists. We were thrilled to see him perform not once but twice this summer!

Dave Mallett and Mike Burd Jackson, NH photo by S. Wright August 2022

After the show in Hadley, Massachusetts, I spoke to Dave and his long time bass player, Mike Burd, about what they have been listening to.

Dave did not mention too many specific artists except for his boys’ band- The Mallett Brothers Band.

Luke and Will Mallett Portland, Maine 2019 photo by S. Wright

The Mallett Brothers Band Nashua, NH 2019- photo S. Wright

In a weird musical rabbit hole twist, I interviewed The Mallett Brothers Band when they played in Nashua, NH a few years ago. I also saw Dave play with the band in Portland, Maine just before Covid was a thing. Kenya Hall performed with them as well, and I really like this remix with her.

Dave also mentioned listening to the radio and his collection of 45s. Someone suggested to me that he went through a Nine Inch Nails phase. I did ask him about that after the show in Jackson, NH and he did not deny it!

Mike Burd said he likes to listen to a variety of music- random plays on the smart speaker (one song leads to another). He also enjoys Vanilla Fudge, Jethro Tull and Miles Davis.

Snowbound by Dave Mallett accompanied by Mike Burd August 2022

Many thanks to Dave and Mike for taking the time to talk!

Click here for more info on shows and more-

David Mallett- Official Website

Thanks for checking in!

What are you listening to?

Stephanie

Logo by Z. Stith

You can find 603 Melody on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube too!

Sean McCann – Shanty Man

Hello World! Sean McCann was cool before Bernie Sanders landed in a Sea Shanty.

Sean McCann Boston City Winery July 2022

Yes -Sea Shanties were a thing long before YouTube and TikTok.

As a founding member of the Canadian band, Great Big Sea, Sean has had a long musical career. He also has dealt with serious personal issues that he no longer keeps to himself. In fact he recently wrote a book with his wife about their shared struggles- One Good Reason. Sean believes in the power of music, as well as the power of being open with mental health issues. I am glad for Sean and his family that he is STRONGER!

I have been to multiple Great Big Sea concerts. Last month was my first opportunity to see Sean play since the GBS days! Take a listen to Sean performing Sea of No Cares. He also shares what enjoys listening to as well in the video below. As Sean explains Chris Trapper “cowrote” Sea of No Cares. One artist always leads to another, and I discovered Chris when he sang with GBS one evening in Lowell, Massachusetts. If you have been following 603 Melody you may remember that Mr. Trapper was featured in a previous post (insert shameless plug).

My first introduction to Great Big Sea was the song Mari Mac. Maybe the band was playing on PBS; I can’t remember. I do remember loving the tune, and dancing around the living room with my little boy (he is older now than I like to admit- or I would have to be aging too). You couldn’t sit down at a live GBS show either! At one venue I thought the floor was going to give way. To say people were jumping up and down enthusiastically would be an understatement!

This new release by Sean will get your toes tapping too-

Need some more Sean McCann? Click here-https://seanmccannsings.com.

Thanks for checking in! Thanks to Mr. McCann as well for sharing his musical interests!

What are you listening to?

Stephanie

Follow 603 Melody down the musical rabbit hole on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.

Logo by Z. Stith

Hello World! You’ve Got a Friend In Me! Meet Alexis Babini

The Little Mermen June 2022 photo by S. Wright

A couple weekends ago The Little Merman entertained big and little Disney music enthusiasts at the Tupelo Music Hall in Derry, New Hampshire. Missed them? They will be back in the 603 at the end of July in Laconia. See below for a list of other upcoming performances.

thelittlemermen.com

After the show the band took photos with happy fans. The Little Mermen founder, Alexis Babini was kind enough to take a minute to let me know what he has been listening to.

What are you listening to Alexis Babini? June 2022

Did any of Alexis’ answers surprise you?

What is your favorite Disney song?

Check out this song by Alexis too-

Love music? Follow 603Melody down the musical rabbit hole on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube!

Thanks for checking in!

What are you listening to?

Stephanie

Hello World! Worth the Wait: Mr. Bob Schneider!

Bob Schneider Saxon Pub 2022 photo by S. Wright

Hello World!

Bob Schneider was one of the inspirations for 603 Melody. No lie! It is right there on my home page. I love all kinds of music, and not everyone I listen to is a household name. So I was curious about what other people are listening to, would some of the artists I like be on their playlists? I was psyched when Bob Schneider’s name came up when I interviewed Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers- see August 2018 interview (insert shameless plug). So cool!

I have been telling people about Bob for years! He is a musician, singer-songwriter, artist with some comedian thrown in. Ok a lot of funny! Bob can make you laugh, cry, blush (if the flavor is too strong). A Parental Advisory is advised when checking out his music. Although Bob does have a children’s album out, a lot of his content is for adults. And talk about content, I once heard it said that Bob could play for 6 days straight without repeating any songs. That is a lot of material!

Bob and Ted Tupelo Music Hall Londonderry, NH 2016 photo by S.Wright

My first Bob Schneider concert was in New Hampshire at the Tupelo Music Hall, and I was HOOKED! Sometimes I have to venture out of the 603 into Massachusetts to get a fix. I even went to a show in Indy with my in-laws! For the last two years Bob has also been a welcome escape online. Throughout the pandemic, he has provided his Patreon Song Club members with a weekly livestream show. Bob continues to perform virtually even though venues are open, and he is back to performing in front of live crowds.

Bob Schneider’s Song Club

Bob Schneider Indy 2017 photo by S.Wright

Recently my husband and I took a long overdue vacay to Austin, Texas. It was our first visit. Of course seeing Bob perform with Lonelyand at his weekly Monday night gig was a must! He has been performing at the Saxon Pub for years! When you know, you know! Charlie Mars also just happened to be there on Friday as well. Good timing I must say! One artist always leads to another- I discovered Charlie because of Bob. A few years ago I had the opportunity to meet Mr. Mars when he came to Boston. Don’t forget to check out his May 2018 interview (insert 2nd shameless plug).

Covid has been a nightmare to the music industry. So you can imagine my excitement when Bob’s City Winery – Boston show was finally rescheduled several years into the pandemic. I was even happier when Bob said we could talk after his show about what he is listening to! So without further ado straight from Bob into your ear holes-

Bob Schneider Boston March 2022

Jay Thomas, Bob’s long time audio engineer, was also kind enough to give that quick bonus answer to what he is listening to as well. Hopefully no one kept scrolling and peeked ahead- here are a few videos inspired by their answers. Thanks to Bob and Jay for their time! It is much appreciated!

Diechkind Wer Sagt Denn Das?

Justin Bieber Ghost

Bleachers Chinatown

Tom Waits Walk Away

Merle Haggard Mama Tried

Bob has a new album out. It really could have been a double, did I mention he has lots of material? Here are two of my favorites from “In A Roomful of Blood With A Sleeping Tiger” –

I Love This Life and Boys You Like

For more info click here- https://www.bobschneider.com

Thanks for checking in!

What are you listening to?

Stephanie

PS Need more music? Hop down the musical rabbit hole with me- one artist always leads to another!

Check out @603melody on Instagram, YouTube and Facebook.

603Melody logo by Z. Stith

Hello World! Meet Drew Angus!

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Drew Angus Tupelo Music Hall 2019 photo by Stephanie Wright

Hello World!

Meet Drew Angus! Drew and his band recently opened for Marc Broussard at the Tupelo Music Hall in Derry, New Hampshire.  This Brooklyn based group has been playing together for almost five years. You know I did not pass up an opportunity to ask what they have been listening to.

No surprise that Drew mentioned Marc Broussard. Marc is awesome! Drew just released a cover of  (Sittin on)The Dock of the Bay  with him. Keep an eye out for Drew’s upcoming EP “Live from Dockside Studios“.  Dockside Studio has an impressive list of clients; including another one of my favorites- Tab Benoit.  I won’t go down that musical rabbit hole now. You can check out the Tab Benoit post later on 603melody.com (#insertshamelessplug). Drew also listens to Ben Rector, Bailen, and Josie Dunne. I thought Old School was sweet.

Sam enjoys Soccer Mommy. He also brought up Elvis Costello’s latest album, Look Now, and Joni Mitchell’s The Hissing of Summer Lawns.  How did I miss Elvis Costello’s new release? Take a listen to  Unwanted Number and Photographs Can Lie.

Spencer mentioned Emily King, Jennah Bell, Ex:Re, as well as the Wood Brothers. Get dancing with Happiness Jones.

Nick added The Saplings- Go Digital to the list.

The band was kind enough to give me the CD – Hold Onto Something.  Brother  and  Always are just two of the songs on it. Thanks to Drew, Spencer, Sam, and Nick for their time, and new music suggestions.  Visit Drewangus.com for more info on tour dates and such!

Thanks for checking in!

What are you listening to?

Stephanie

PS  Fun fact- Drew was a finalist on American Idol in 2016.  He was also in this SNL skit (Civil War Soldiers ) with Harry Styles and Jimmy Fallon!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hello World! Million Mile Lexus

Photo shared by Ana and Anton 2018 #millionmilelexus

Hello World!

On a recent visit to New Hampshire’s Mount Washington Hotel,  I spotted a unique white car in the parking lot. My son (a car fanatic)  later confirmed that it was indeed a pretty cool sighting.  Apparently, it was Matt Farah’s Million Mile Lexus.  Other automobile enthusiasts would know about Matt Farah, his podcast ( The Smoking Tire), and his Lexus.  But this was new to me. Apparently,  Matt bought a used 1996 LS400 with high mileage (I believe with just under 900,000.00 miles) and decided to keep it going to a million miles.  Matt is allowing other people to drive his car to help get to that goal. When I spied the Lexus at the end of July, Anton and Ana were the lucky drivers of the vehicle.  Ana and Anton have a vlog and posted this ( USA Road Trip)  to explain their latest adventure.  Unfortunately, I did not meet them while they were touring the 603.  So I reached out and asked what they were listening to on the road.   They said they like to sing and shout, and have fun using Spotify -just browsing random playlists to find something new. If they are unable to connect to the internet, they pop in one of the cassette tapes that came with the car.  Yes, cassette tapes!  Strunz & Farah’s Primal Magic (listen here)  has been a favorite on their 14,000+ mile journey.  Other times they enjoy the quiet. I can’t thank Ana and Anton enough for the photos, and their quick response to my musical inquiry.   I hope they enjoyed their visit to our beautiful state and their amazing trip around the USA.  For more info about Ana and Anton click here adventureholix.com.   So cool!

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Photo shared by Ana and Anton 2018 #millionmilelexus

 

Thanks for checking in!

What are you listening to?

Stephanie

 

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The Mount Washington Hotel photo by Stephanie Wright 2018

Hello World! Everything is Better with Bacon!

 

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Kevin Bacon 2018 Tupelo Music Hall

 

Hello World! Kevin Bacon, movie star, musician, and BLT connoisseur performed last night at the Tupelo Music Hall.  His band, with brother Michael, is aptly named The Bacon Brothers.  My apologies for the grainy photos. You know that one time you meet Kevin and Michael Bacon, and the pre-show photos are fuzzy. House photographer, Jerry LoFaro, was on hand later in the evening, and I am sure he got some stellar shots of the performance.  He always does! Kevin and Michael brought a full band, including a whistling tour manager. Michael also plays the cello, and the band performed a song complete with ukeleles as well. Yes, ukeleles, there were several!  Chef J served up two versions of BLTs ( Kevin’s creations) for the Tupelo crowd. It was a great night!  What’s better than music and bacon?

Check out Kevin’s sandwiches The BLAT & the BLAST.

More music to love!

Tom Petty T-Shirt by The Bacon Brothers 

Bunch of Words by The Bacon Brothers

For those of you old enough to remember the original Footloose movie (30 +years ago), here’s a little throwback-  Footloose Entrance on Jimmy Fallon

And on a more serious note, kindness counts! To see how you can make a difference go to  sixdegrees.org.

 

Thanks for checking in!

What are you listening to?

Stephanie

Hello World! Harbor Cruising with RCPM!

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RCPM -2018 P.H., Roger, Nick, and Jim (standing) Photo by Stephanie Wright

 

Hello World!  Recently Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers rocked out in Boston. It was a beautiful day to be out on the water and of course, the band sounded awesome! RCPM played songs written back in The Refreshments day as well as new music. I have too many favorites to pick just one. Check these out to get a little taste – Marie,   Sin Nombre, and  Flowerin’ .  What did you think of the Flowerin’ video? That’s a lot of LEGOS! Impressive!  I caught up with the band before they hit the stage. The guys kindly told me what they have been listening to. I can’t thank them enough for taking the time to talk!

 

 

Both Roger Clyne and Nick Scropos are digging Spoon. How about you?

I Ain’t the One by Spoon

Side note, Nick co-owns a Pita Jungle. During my last visit to AZ, I had a chance to eat there with my nephew. He loved their salmon and even said it was his favorite place during vacation. The kid has good taste!  Ok back to the music…

P.H. Naffah has been enjoying older music, such as R & B, Motown, Derek and the Dominoes as well as The Police. It is hard for me to think of The Police as “older” music, but I guess it is after all 2018!  P.H. also mentioned two “newer” artists, Rayland Baxter and Gregory Alan Isakov.

Stable by Gregory Alan Isakov

Casanova by Rayland Baxter

Jim Dalton is inspired by one of my all-time favorites, Bob Schneider! Yes!  So cool to learn that Jim is a fan as well!  He likes Bob Schneider’s Lovely Creatures album; especially the track, Changing Your Mind, featuring Patty Griffin. The album is fabulous but that is a post for another day.

Please visit the band website for more info about RCPM!   Need more? There is also a band documentary  herestolifemovie.com.

 

 

 

Thanks for checking in!

What are you listening to?

Stephanie

Hello World! Nothing Takes the Place of You!

Hello World!  Tab Benoit burned up the Tupelo stage with drummer Jeffery “Jellybean ” Alexander and bassist Corey Duplechin.  I loved hearing two of my favorites, “Shelter Me” and “Nothing Takes the Place of You “.  Tab had the audience going with his humor as well.  After the show, I asked Tab and his band what they are listening to.

Corey listens to Jazz, Funk, and Fusion on Pandora.  He has a wide range of musical interests including Alice Cooper and AC/DC.  I have to say if you wanna rock out AC/DC is at the top of the list!  Although It’s a Long Way to the Top!

Jellybean likes old R and B as well as Mint Condition-check out (Nothing Left to Say ). This is the second time I have seen Jellybean perform. He has a smile that does not quit!

When I asked Tab, he said, “I am listening to you” (talk that is). Not a chance that he would refer to my singing.  Tab feels music deep in his soul and favors the music he grew up with.  Although he did not give specifics, I think it safe to say the Blues were an influential part of his youth!  Tab considers the songs that get stuck in his head a nuisance. Unless of course, they’re his creations. For more info on Tab Benoit click on  tabbenoit.com.  He will be in New England for a few more shows this month.

Thanks “guys”!  Loved learning about “wild chickens” and “tricorn hats” too!

 

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Tab Benoit – Photo by Stephanie Wright 2018

 

Thanks for checking in!

What are you listening to?

Stephanie