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Cindy Parker
Impression Studio
Email: impressionsstudio@mac.com
Website:www.ImpressionsStudio.com

By: Maggie Griffin

Blending high energy rock, and funk, FREEPLAY’s grown into a popular band that raises their audience in a “get up and dance” at every performance. While enjoying their song selection along with interacting with their audience, it is a fact while dancing on the floor; you may just see yourself dancing close to one of the band members. FREEPLAY not only blends their performances of music from all genres, they are also currently working on the production of their own songs.

Introducing the FREEPLAY Band Members:

Ed Merola, famed by his distinctive black hat, is the base to base walk, steaming in with the blend of tunes, his forte in base tone takes on the stage, strings the base at the beat of his feet. Once that hat is on, there is a no stopping, walking foot base and vocals.

Jim Pino at the sax, and vocals, he also takes on that harmonic tone as well. He is the creation of loud sounding, using his moves with sax appeal. On solo, he overlaps jazz to rock, rhythm and blues, joining the base of base in Ed’s walking base tones.

Skip Swift is the shaker of lips and feet, mixing rhythm and blues with his guitar and vocals, as he moves like the famous “Blues Brothers”. Skip jumps in with his guitar and vocals, shifting walls and bouncing floors, joining in with Jim hen Jim powers his sax or harmonica,.

Joe Podsiadlo takes his guitar and vocals from is own natural
“pod-cast” to the past, sounding like the legend “Johnny Cash” in guitar. He brings the country soul into the blend of the band, using classic and original rock. Tuning up the notch he delivers his casting classics with Skip’s rhythm and blues.

Jordan Giangreco branches in with electric energy behind the keyboard, shouting his vocals mixing in with the band. His free playing style stems from his fingers to his elbows, bopping to his own “Give me Some Lovin” classic while styling a Led Zep mold of his own, mixing the branch with Joe.

All of this in a blending machine sound, follows by a stickler with sticks on drums “Rambo” as he takes the beat to the next level where he can move the sticks as though they are playing fast on percussion and brick walls. Percussion at its best, “hand held in sticks” is the secret weapon of Rambo.

The classic performance of FREEPLAY is the magic of the auto combination in performance from all members of this band. Where one follows the other without skipping a beat, they have a style that is a perfection of their own, getting a grove on which makes their performances too valuable, their audience seems to want to take them home. They are Connecticut’s Hottest and Best Playing Band where they also seem to perform at a level where suddenly it feels like their music selections and performance magically lifts you off your feet through their blasting music performing style.

FREEPLAY also has passion in a charitable cause for Breast Cancer. They will be hosting and performing on August 28th, rain or shine, at Westbrook Elks Club from 1:00 pm to 10:00 pm to benefit the Yale New Haven Breast Center at Smilow Hospital. 2010 marks the 2nd Annual Beach Jam for Breast Cancer. Purchasing tickets in advance includes Admission, event T-Shirt and Lunch. Children under 12 get in for FREE! There will be Food and Beverages at this performance for purchase as well.

For more information or to purchase your tickets, visit: www.BreastCancerBeachJam.com

Below is currently in the books where FREEPLAY will be peforming.
For booking information call 1-860-663-2502 or email skipswift11@yahoo.com.

Aug 6 2010 8:00P The Back Porch Old Saybrook, Connecticut
Aug 7 2010 7:00P Orange Carnival Orange, Ct
Aug 21 2010 9:00P Wedding Branford, Connecticut
Aug 22 2010 TBD Wedding Westbrook, Connecticut
Aug 28 2010 12:00P Breast Cancer Benefit Westbrook, Connecticut
Sept 4 2010 8:00P The Back Porch Old Saybrook, Connecticut
Sep 25 2010 Wedding Monroe, Connecticut
Oct 2 2010 Jake’s Wallingford, Connecticut
Oct 16 2010 Daniel St Milford, Connecticut
Dec 11 2010 Private Christmas Party Old Lyme, Connecticut
Dec 18 2010 Daniel St Milford, Connecticut

Visit FREEPLAY on the web at www.FreeplayTheBand.com

David Pruett

David Pruett

Hi David. We’ve had the pleasure of reading  your book, MuzikMafia: From the Local Nationville Scene to the National Mainstream . As we told you earlier, your book is captivating – instructive from a business perspective (a should read for those considering a career in music).  On the one hand, the book is a case study exposing the high ups and low downs of the music business. MuzikMafia is also entertaining (if we might say so), telling of the Nashville scene, the story of MuzikMafia – and some great anecdotes along the way.

We know a bit about your academic background, tell us a bit more about yourself and your interest in music.

DP:       I was pretty much raised on country music. My first exposure to old-time and bluegrass was through my father Ronnie who grew up in Mount Airy, North Carolina, where he worked at the small, traditional music radio station WPAQ. He would tell me stories of interviewing Andy Griffith and seeing Flatt & Scruggs perform live. I spent my formative years on a farm in rural upstate South Carolina where I learned to sing almost every Hank Williams Jr. song by heart. I took pride in my southern roots and the country music that reflected my upbringing. My formal musical training began when I was in sixth grade, and I have been performing ever since. Along the way, I have gained a love and appreciation for listening to and performing musics from many global cultural soundscapes, including those from the Middle East and India.

What motivated you to write the book. How did it come about – was it a clearly defined project from the get-go or did you “discover” the book over time?

DP:       I have to admit that serendipity played a large role. I was in the right place at the right time. I was teaching at Middle Tennessee State

MuzikMafia, the godfather (l-r): Kenny Alphin, Jon Nicholson, Cory Gierman, John Rich (Photo: Deanna Kay)

MuzikMafia, the godfather (l-r): Kenny Alphin, Jon Nicholson, Cory Gierman, John Rich (Photo: Deanna Kay)

University in spring 2004 when one of my popular music students mentioned that I should see this “new thing” called MuzikMafia in Nashville. I decided to give it a shot and attended my first MuzikMafia show on June 14, 2004—a night that changed my life. I was blown away by the high degree of talent among the MuzikMafia’s roster of diverse artists and the feeling of closeness among audience members at that show. It was like being around family. While there, I also met John Rich who was enthusiastic to idea of me writing my doctoral dissertation on the MuzikMafia, documenting their forthcoming rise to national stardom. And the rest is history…

The project was clearly defined from the get go, although I did have to modify my approach and methodology during the MuzikMafia’s growth in popularity. In just a few months in summer 2004, I went from videotaping shows and interviewing artists in small Nashville clubs to national tours in front of tens of thousands of fans. The MuzikMafia, especially Big & Rich, have been great in granting me full and unfettered access since the beginning. They invited me into their lives and allowed me to tell their story from a rare, insider’s perspective.

What was the biggest (or what were the biggest) challenge(s) in writing the book? Tell us a little bit about the high and lows for David Pruett while writing the book?

DP: One of the major challenges was getting the whole story from each artist. It’s human nature for artists to want only the best things written about them. As a result, I found myself having to consult multiple sources to get the complete story, cross-check all facts, and to follow-up numerous times with each artist to insure the book’s integrity. I was clear with the MuzikMafia from the beginning in that I was not their public relations representative and that the book was not intended to be a promotional tool. I emphasized that I was a serious scholar wanting to produce an accurate account of the MuzikMafia’s birth, growth, and development during a specific time in popular music history.


Backstage All Access Passes (Photo: David Pruett)

It was my honor and privilege to work with the MuzikMafia 2004-2009. These were the taste-makers of the industry if even for a brief time, and I had the fortunate opportunity to see life from their point of view. The MuzikMafia included the best of the best that Nashville has to offer, and I’ll always remember those many conversations on the tour bus before and after shows, the back stage antics, the parties at the Fontanel Mansion, the roar of the crowds, and the many MuzikMafia artists who made my research such an intimate, deeply fulfilling experience.

The greatest disappointment for me was to witness first-hand the gradual downfall of the MuzikMafia 2006-2008. Performances during this time gradually became awkward, and die-hard fans, many of whom I had befriended, had become scarce. I slowly watched as the MuzikMafia seemed to implode amidst the tension brought on by its various commercial endeavors. I decided early on not to interfere with the MuzikMafia’s trajectory but rather to document the collective as a significant cultural phenomenon. Sometimes I regret that decision.

How do you summarize the book in a nutshell? What’s it all about from your point of view?

DP: The book is a story of Nashville’s commercial music industry, using the MuzikMafia as a case-study. I provide rare, behind-the-scene insight into not only how, but why the MuzikMafia became a national popular music phenomenon and how MuzikMafia artists changed—almost single-handedly—the sound and image of commercial country music in 2004-2005.

For me, the book is about Nashville as one of America’s great music centers and how the MuzikMafia is but a reflection of the city’s diverse music scene.

Great.  What is (or are) the key take-away(s) for your readers?

DP: What readers should realize is that the music industry is not a Utopia of quick record deals, national tours, and quickly fulfilled dreams. It’s a very real place full of real people with real problems. There is a reason why some artists make it to the top, while others do not. Seldom is luck involved. Usually it is because opportunity meets years of preparation and hard work. Unfortunately, fun, fame, and fortune are frequently accompanied by greed, jealousy, and pain. The book examines the music industry from a well-rounded, more realistic perspective rather than from an overly positive or negative point of view.

More importantly, the book serves as a veritable how-to manual for any musician wanting to make it big in the music business. MuzikMafia artists were masters at working the system. The book reveals how they did it.

Can you tell us about current projects underway? Any follow-ups to MuzikMafia planned for the future?

DP: I am working on another book project at the moment. Everyone will have to stayed tuned for details, though. Revealing too much at this early stage always brings bad luck! However, I can say that has something to do with Nashville’s music scene.

The optimist in me hopes that the MuzikMafia will one day reunite, making a follow-up book necessary. However, there are still some hurdles that MuzikMafia artists need to overcome for that to happen. A free, Tuesday night show in Nashville for a few local friends and fans would be a good start. That’s what MuzikMafia was like in the beginning. That is what it was supposed to be all along.

David, thanks so much for you time and willingness to talk to us. Much appreciated and we wish you the best of luck going forward.  David B. Pruett is an Assistant Professor of Music at the University of Massachusetts at Boston.  A native of North Carolina, he has been widely published in scholarly and popular books and journals.

Purchase from Amazon.com at SHOP HorizonVU Music MuzikMafia: From the Local Nashville Scene to the National Mainstream (American Made Music Series)


 

ArleneWOW!

Special Thanks to ArleneWow! for her surprise visit to perform for the Special Olympics Tri-Town, Meriden - Wallingford – North Haven, Connecticut.

By:  Maggie Griffin

  Thomas Dacey
Motivation – Dedication –Inspiration is what defines the mission of Tom Dacey. Talking to Tom, defining what The Special Olympics is to him and all the athletes who participate in The Special Olympics Tri-Town is a mission to raise and support the recognition several of the best athletes participate and take pride in the win for the ribbons and metals.

As with the National Special Olympics, the Special Olympics Tri-Town in Wallingford, Meriden and North Haven, CT; continues its community involvement in a sports program for people with intellectual disabilities. It provides year-round training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type summer and winter sports for participants.

Charles F. Dacey, Jr., Tom Dacey’s Father, contributed through volunteering his time to help and encourage all athletes while transporting them when Tom participated in the North Haven Special Olympics. “The Special Olympics is very close and dear to my heart. I was a Special Olympian myself. Taking pride in the trophies and ribbons I won doing the softball throw, watching the champions today continue a legacy which keeps the Special Olympics Torch lit,” said Tom Dacey.
David Blakeslee Jr. (pictured left with Allison Vilardi) is a multiple, 280 times metal champion Special Olympian, Showcasing his athletic skills since he was 8 years old. David takes pride when he said; “My parents, entire family and friends have been my support ever since I became a Special Olympian Athlete. I have two special good luck charms, my God-daughter Allison Vilardi and my little princess niece Madison Blakeslee. My sister Heather Blakeslee – Fiore is the best coach in softball and encourages a foundation for all athletes, including myself, when the softball game takes place in the Special Olympics Tri-Town”. David continues to showcase his athletic skills along with encouraging his fellow athletes in doing the same. Kenneth Blakeslee, David’s brother, is one of the basket ball coaches for the Special Olympian athletes as well. The families and friends of the Special Olympians Tri-Town are the core asset to the Special Olympic Tri-Town event yearly. Dave Burghhardt, David Blakeslee’s Uncle and close friend of Tom Dacey, is more than proud of his nephew; he is proud of all the athletes and commits to volunteering as well. “I am so happy that Tom choose Tri-Town to be the cause for this years Wallypalooza. I promised Tom that I would get my awesome family involved and help make this the best ever! Tom and I come from big families and it was great to see his family and mine together today to support each other along with old friends and new”, said Burghhardt.
Colleen Costello, Administrator Director for The Special Olympics Tri-Town works closely with Coordinator Michael Canty. “I love my responsibility as the Administrator Director for The Special Olympics Tri-Town. Year round the athletes participate in several sports.” Costello emphasized. She continues about the sporting events that take place through every season. “In the winter there is Alpine Skiing and Snow Boarding. During the spring season there is the traditional Basket Ball. Summer events include aquatics, cycling and athletics followed by the fall sports that is bocce for the athletes over the age of 30 and traditional softball. But that’s not all, there is the Holiday sports that include bowling which is both traditional and unified, power lifting and volley ball”.

Allison Vilardi is proud to get the word out when she told me “Every season there is a constant running of sports the Special Olympian Tri-Town athletes take pride in their athletic talents and skills.”

Celebrating the 5th annual Wallypalooza at Jake’s Martini Bar on Central St., in Wallingford, CT, the food from Tata’s Restaurant was the start of the celebration.

 Following entertainment was DJ’s and karaoke by “Moments to Remember” where many sang and enjoyed their DJ spirit, followed by a special visit by recording artist, song-wrighter and performer ArleneWow! giving her continued support in the Special Olympic Tri-Town spirit.
The 5th annual Wallypalooza became a crowded event. From the food, music, raffle items and more, it was a pleasure to meet many Special Olympian athletes that are the champions of champions as Special Olympians.

 Talking to trained swimmer and multi winner Lisa, who is also a Special Olympian Athlete, she emphasized her love of swimming. I took pleasure in listening to Lisa as my oldest, and lovable, big brother was a multi-winner Special Olympian as well in his younger years; who also loves to swim. Lisa’s mom is proud of her daughter’s swimming techniques and skills. The Special Olympics is important to Lisa and her proud Mom as well as thousands of others across the country.Seeing and listening to the pride and support of a parent, sibling, niece, nephew, cousins and friends of a Special Olympian is something I know well because I am also the sister of a Multi-time Special Olympic Winner. Talking to the athletes and their families took me back in time when my big brother won his ribbons and metals as an athlete of The Special Olympics for several years. Remembering his athletic skills to the fullest, winning his metals and ribbons are more than pride, it’s proud for me to say “he is my big brother”, and I am honored to be a part of this special event and be amongst several Special Olympic Winners today. And although my big brother is older now, during the years he participated as one of many skilled athletes in the Special Olympics, he still takes pride and joy for his wins, something I am still proud of him for as well. Today he continues to be the best at anything he does.

It was with honor when Tom Dacey asked me to be a special guest at this event. The Special Olympics is meaningful and important to thousands of people. Talking with Tom Dacey, a Man who is a role model in many ventures, he is also a man of motivation, dedication and inspiration. He continues to pass the spirit he holds dear to his heart of the lit Torch to all Special Olympians that are Champions. Special Thanks To ArleneWOW!

December marks the 30th Anniversary of the Special Olympics Tri-Town, a celebration that is a proud recognized value in the Tri-Town communities. With 160 athletes who currently participate in the sports of the Special Olympics Tri-Town, for more information, schedule of events and questions, write to – Special Olympics Tri-Town; P.O. Box 588; Meriden, CT 06450.

 


By: Maggie Griffin

Driven by the simple belief that we all need to pull together to help fellow citizens in times of crisis, a group of mostly Connecticut individuals set out to help their national neighbors over a 1,200 miles away.

“Give To The Gulf” www.GiveToTheGulf.org combines music and a spirit of collaboration to raise funds for a region of our country that has had a terrible run of luck over the last five years – starting with Hurricane Katrina.

The effort began with a simple idea by Farmington entrepreneur, Eric Knight, and was brought to life by the energies, talents, and resources of Paul Lombardo and Tom Russo, the principals of L&R Productions of East Hartford.

Knight initially submitted to BP an engineering solution to the oil flow problem, but, as with many creative solutions that were offered to the oil conglomerate, his approach got bogged down in red tape. But his brain was undeterred. Out of a deep sleep one night he awoke with four simple words that he wrote on a bedside notepad: “Give to the Gulf”. And this simple thought set into motion a very special project.

Knight and Russo, marketing industry friends and colleagues, chatted about the possibilities of creating a fund-raiser embodied by the “give to the Gulf” theme. The loosely formed idea sparked a series of brainstorming meetings between them and additional colleagues.

There was a universal feeling that the need was urgent and it was important to act quickly. After all, the Gulf situation was getting worse by the day — for both the affected people and the environment.

A goal emerged: To create an online mechanism in which the sale of new music would generate funds for Gulf-relief efforts.

This simple mission literally became an around-the-clock effort for the team. Russo and Lombardo focused on the various music aspects of the project, including writing and producing the title song along with co-songwriter Bill Holloman “Give To The Gulf”. Knight worked to develop the Web site, as well as to bring on board additional talent to tackle key aspects of the endeavor.

For instance, artist John Parkinson volunteered his creativity to develop the “Give To The Gulf” logo. Audio engineer Mike Sokol helped make an important contact at Apple, ultimately enabling music to be distributed through iTunes. Marketing and public relations professionals also stepped in to volunteer their expertise, including Mary Ann Dostaler, of MAD Communications, and Nancy Wuennemann, of Video2People.

Bill Holloman, of L&R Productions, provided multiple skills — from music engineering to vocals on the emerging songs. Film producer, Steve Sattler, crafted a “Give To The Gulf” music video.

And, finally, a company called TuneCore, headquartered in the Bronx, NY, provided the technology glue between iTunes and consumers wishing to download the songs of the “Give To The Gulf” music collection.

The entire team left no stone unturned in finding musical talent to donate original music to collection – which ultimately rolled out at 11 songs. It was a whirlwind effort.

Throughout the process, Knight worked the phones to put into place the final piece of the puzzle: the United Way as the recipient of the to-be-raised funds.

From the inception of the idea to the full roll-out and launch of this national program was a blistering six weeks,” said Russo. “It was a non-stop process.

The end result: www.GiveToTheGulf.org a slick online system that allows visitors to listen to all 11 songs of “Volume 1” of the music collection, and with just a click — be transported to iTunes for easy music downloading.

When someone downloads music from the collection, revenue that would normally go to the artist is now channeled directly to the United Way and its “Gulf Recovery Fund”.

The Web site also makes it easy for artists, anywhere in the world, to participate in the “Give To The Gulf” project. There is a simple mechanism for artists to upload their .WAV files for review.

By providing a way for musicians to directly upload music gives artists, anywhere and everywhere, the opportunity to be part of this great cause,” said Lombardo. “Every dollar counts to raise the bar and for reaching even more people in need. A fringe benefit is providing wide exposure for the artists who are contributing their music. It’s a win-win.”

Artists wishing to submit music for review should visit www.GiveToTheGulf.org and upload their music via the “Add Your Music” navigation link.

What’s next for the “Give To The Gulf” team? Volume 2 is already in the works, as well as contemplations for Volumes 3, 4, 5, and more. In fact, Parkinson has already designed iTunes artwork through Volume 7. Volume 2 is targeted for release on September 1.

If you’d like to “Give To The Gulf” and contribute to the relief effort, visit www.GiveToTheGulf.org and download a great selection of original music.

By: Maggie Griffin

For years we know Christine Ohlman, lead vocals on the band for Saturday Night Live. And for years her fans grew by the thousands, growing to

Photos: Rick Kallaher Design: Adam Seth

Photos: Rick Kallaher Design: Adam Seth

love her in voice, talent and performance. And with Christine being a native of Bronx, New York, she was born to Rock n’ Roll with a lot of Soul.

Coming from a musically talented family, she began to tune up the volume since she was a toddler. Amazement by her riff, Christine states “My parents were my inspiration through their encouragement to my siblings and myself in the music industry. Coming from a musically talented family and background, in the early 70’s, my brother and I had a band and made our first recording”.

At the age of 17, “Wake Me, Shake Me” was Christine’s first release, breaking the top 100 in singles. Amongst being the lead vocals in the band on Saturday Night Live, Christine recorded 6 albums, which includes the new release of her newest CD “The Deep End”. Christine feels strongly when she stated; “I love my fans. Their support means everything to me. What I do in the Music Industry is for them.” Music to my ears when Christine told me how much she loves her fans and what her fans mean to her, as I have been a fan of Christine Ohlman as far back as I can remember.

Christine’s new release of The Deep End with Rebel Montez is:

Christine Ohlman – vocals, acoustic and electric guitar;
Cliff Goodwin – vocals, lead guitar;
Michael Colbath – bass, vocals;
Larry Donahue – drums, percussion

Christine is proud to be with these excellent performers as they too are well known names in the music industry. All of them combined are Rebel Montez.

Christine Ohlman is still the current and long time vocalist, with the Saturday Night Live Band, who sang in their 25th anniversary telecast, Bob Dylan’s 30th Anniversary bash at The Garden with George Harrison and Chrissie Hynde. Christine, the queen of blue-eyed rock n’ soul , also made her special appearance at the 2009 Obama Inaugural Gala in Washington, DC, The Lincoln Center “American Songbook” series with Sting and Lou Reed. That’s not all. Christine Ohlman’s performances with many others in the music industry, draws her fans to her like a magnet. Christine will tell her audience, “I’ve come here to set your souls on fire”. With Christine’s Saturday Night Live “Swine Fever”, Raves for Re-Hive, interviews with the New York Times, this Beehive Queen also Rocked Elmore Magazine. Shall I mention Rolling Stone as well? She is everywhere.

Members of The Rebel Montez are the most valuable people to her as for her new release of “The Deep End”, which is available on sale now. Along with Christine’s long standing history in Rock n’ Roll, she is deep in Soul with the members of Rebel Montez.

It is a pleasure to introduce and give you a glimpse along with the names you already know. The members who work with Christine Ohlman and Rebel Montez are:

Cliff Goodwin: He is the legendary New England Rock n’ Roll gods The American Standard Band. Joe Cocker and Robert Palmer called Cliff to be their lead guitarist because of his legendary reputable signature in performance. The music industry fames Cliff; he not only shares the stage, Cliff rocks the House.

Michael Colbath: He is the Jazz at the base of his own rhythm. Known as “Buddha of the Bass”, his stage presence goes deep. With Michael’s fingers at the bass, his performance with Duck Dunn, James Jamierson and John Paul Jones brought his rhythm to high inspirations. He delivers the inspiration in music at its original context.

Larry Donahue: He can beat at 300 BPM. With his coordination beat and percussion moves, he has unshakable timing. A world of inspiration, at LA’s turbulent music scene, Larry has the elegant Stax styling of Al Jackson, Jr. to Wamack’s “Scratchy” and Frank Kirkland’s jungle-drum excursions with Bo Diddley. With Donahue’s Motto “Have Drums, Will Grove”, he is born again every time he picks up those sticks.

Beewiz….where will the Beehive Queen Be Performing Next??? Only one way to find out:

CLICK HERE TO ORDER “THE DEEP END” CD: ON AMAZON.COM
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD “THE DEEP END” on iTunes

ORDER THE CD OR DOWNLOAD ‘THE DEEP END”  through SHOP HorizonVU Music

VISIT CHRISTINE OHLMAN AT www.ChristineOhlman.com

Venture Out! is an Online Magazine that Delivers You News from Sports, Music and Film Entertainment, Reviews, People from all Walks of Life and More! CONTACT US! We love to hear from our readers.  Email: ContactVentureOut@gmail.com or visit www.VentureOutMagazine.com

I remember very well, how I first came to know of Ann’So M. At the time I was doing consulting work in the biz for a previous employer (yes, life before HorizonVU Music) and I was making a concerted effort to bring myself up-to-speed on the emerging rock and alternative scene in France.

Now, arguably, hours on MySpace and Facebook might not be viewed as the best way for an experienced consultant to be spending time – but we do what we need to do…In the process of my search I came across Ann’So M. and her  first eponymous CD.

First, and I have to be honest, she has a totally awesome look about her. Second, and  more to the point, rock or ballad, her music is powerful and moving  - saturated guitars are mixed up with her beautiful, warm and textured voice.The melancholic lyrics dealing with themes such as the constant craving for freedom, the nostalgia for childhood or the inexorable passage of time always sound accurate and true.

Singer and songwriter Ann’So M. was born in December, 25, 1981 in Caen (France). At an early age she began, she began her studies in the Conservatoire where she learned dance, music theory and piano. Her passion for music grews, and she decided,after her baccalauréat (General Certificate of Education) to follow her passion as her profession. Since the age of 15, she has been working on her multiple studio recordings. She started on stage with her first band and the Europe 2 Campus Tour awakened a true  pleasure for being on stage. The attraction for the public, the need of exchange and complicity…she cannot live without it today!

For many years now, she has been  part of the scenes such as Le Réservoir, La Scène Bastille, Le Cargö, L’Exo7, Le PetitJournal Montparnasse and many others, performing first part concerts for famous rock bands Luke, Dolly, BB Brunes and Mademoiselle K.

She has participated in several TV and radio programs (Europe 2 TV, Europe 1, France 3, NRJ… ) A massive presence on the web (on Myspace http://www.myspace.com/annsommusic and Facebook  http://www.facebook.com/#!/annsom2?ref=ts as well as her own site makes her very accessible on the Internet http://www.annsom.com.

Her new album “Pas à pas” (”Step by step”) is  energy – always with a conscience – hard hitting   as “Paris” and “Wake Up” – or melodic and warm as  “Save the Day”.  Lyrics oscillate between an incitement to awake consciences and more poetical ballads. Thanks to her meeting with Louis Bertignac, she has recorded “Je ne veux pas être celle”, arranged, mixed and played at home by Louis Bertignac himself. For those of you not entirely into the French music scene – Ann’So has started singing in English as well as French – even die-hard anglophiles should check out Ann’So M.

You can see Ann’So M. in Paris July 28 at 8:30pm – July 29 at 12:00am at Le Réservoir 16 Rue de la Forge Royale 75011. Find “Pas à pas” and download links at SHOP HorizonVU Music http://blog.horizonvumusic.com/?page_id=1458 and listen on Fréquence Orange http://www.frequenceorange.com/index.php

Wilderness therapy enhances the social and life skills of ‘at risk’ young people who may exhibit problem behaviours, use drugs or have difficulties in school, reducing their chances of experiencing negative life outcomes such as depression, suicide and homelessness.

This is the conclusion of research by Sandy Allen-Craig and Lisa Ronalds which will be presented today, Wednesday 9 September 2009, at the 5th International Adventure Therapy Conference. The event, hosted by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), is taking place from 7-11 September at Pollock Halls, The University of Edinburgh.

The research aimed to evaluate the life effectiveness of participants involved in a wilderness therapy program in order to determine its value as an early treatment intervention for youth ‘at risk’ of homelessness and educational disconnection.

Participants took part in a 7-10 day wilderness experience. In addition they completed pre and post-experience questionnaires measuring factors such as time management, communication skills, self-confidence and problem-solving.

It was found that the majority of factors increased from pre to post-test, with the greatest improvements seen in task leadership, time management and social competence. The results suggest that the program provides an appropriate and effective mechanism for enhancing the personal development of participants.

Sandy Allen-Craig said: “Previous research has shown that wilderness therapy helps young people overcome emotional adjustment, addiction and psychological problems. It can also improve self-perceptions and increase social adjustment and reduce the chances of adolescent participants reoffending.

“The results of the current study give support for the use of wilderness therapy as an intervention to help prevent young people prematurely disengaging from family and the education system. Further investigation may now be needed to develop the program further.”

For more information please contact: Alison Croft, BACP Press & Public Relations Manager, on 01455 883342 (office), 07989 416665 (mobile) or alison.croft@bacp.co.uk or BACP Media Consultant, Phillip Hodson, on 07961 401685 or phillip@philliphodson.co.uk

Be sure to visit Geoffrey at http://www.pathfinder-uk.com/

Recording Artist Dean Robert Puts His Best Foot Forward!


By: Maggie Griffin

The best part about stepping into a music performer’s heart is actually seeing them in action. With Dean Robert, that is exactly what happened. Having heard he was doing a special appearance for his friends and family in his home town at Praxis in Wallingford, CT; I had to take this opportunity to go there and watch a Rising Star perform his new single “Best Foot Forward.”

Moving around the room trying to get the best photos of him, I noticed two glowing people at Dean’s performance as well as other friends and family. Later that evening I spoke to Dean only to discover those two people are his parents, Ralph and Reyna Purificato.

Dean Robert on stage with B.B.P.T – Banging Base Player Tom (aka Tom Oppelt), not only did he put on a show; his performance put his audience at a wisp in the entire room. The melody sound of Dean Robert, his strong flex to his guitar, combined with his energy, he knows how to bring his performance to the highlights of the nights he performs. There is no doubt that Dean Robert IS a rising artist of music where he symbolizes the spirit in today’s generation just by his voice, moves and acoustic style, being multi-instrumental with a vocals that carry a perfect match sound in moves, rhythm and beat.

Dean opened for Ryan Cabrara last December. Dean’s style is similar, yet unique in his own brand that creates an all around sound. Watching Dean perform, my thoughts were “move over Ryan Cabrara and Justin Timberlake – you guys have competition! Additionally, he’s opened for bands Lovedrug and The Myriad.

Dean certainly does put his entire strength in his music performance. Putting his best foot forward is exactly what he does. And the song Best Foot Forward is a song that is often heard on his myspace page along with his live performances. He also puts the feel into what he does, taking every belief and breath in singing and performing.

Performing since a young age, Dean has been seen performing at charitable events, such as Freedom 4-24. This cause is to help women in desperate need to seek a better life and career.
A Connecticut Native that resides in Virginia, Dean’s performances have reached the East Coast with several fans that actually follow him. He is not just good, Dean Robert is great! With his acoustic talented fingers at the strings of his guitar, his finger tips move quick in action on those frets and strings. In between songs, B.B.P.T. and Dean Robert also like to amuse the spirit of the audience. It is obvious that B.B.P.T. likes to perform his base wearing his baseball cap and knee shorts while Dean takes pleasure in his style to the mile in jeans. Like any performer, Dean captures his audience by directing them to a world of entertainment, this time in Dean’s style. As for B.B.P.T. he plays close attention to his base, working his tone to the bone, which certainly keeps up with Dean’s energy.

Visit Dean Robert and his newest of songs at www.myspace.com/DeanRobertMusic, where you can also contact him direct.

Venture Out! is an Online Magazine that Delivers You News from Sports, Music and Film Entertainment, Reviews, People from all Walks of Life and More! CONTACT US! We love to hear from our readers.  Email: ContactVentureOut@gmail.com or visit www.VentureOutMagazine.com

An Interview with Lawrence Dohini

Founder of LawsLair Entertainment Group


By: Maggie Griffin

READY – SET – ACTION!

Lawrence Donini is the founder of LawsLair Entertainment Group, a full service entertainment conglomerate that produces high quality music videos, feature films, television pilots, commercials, promo videos, and all aspects of film and video production.

LawsLair Entertainment provides musical artists with professional recording with professional sound engineers, high quality music videos, professional high grade album covers and posters.

Lawrence Dohini provides all aspects of entertainment, including concerts, press releases, media coverage, red carpet events, promotions, video/audio equipment, lighting equipment. To conclude, production crew, green screen stage, television studio, state of the art recording studio, ADR Foley, animators, visual effects artists, editors, script writers, graphic designers, hair/make-up artists, photographers, public relations and marketing. Being a Professional Specialist in the industry of entertainment, LawsLair Entertainment Group also specializes in feature films, music videos, commercials, concerts, audio recording, editing, screenwriting, producing, directing, lighting, special effects, visual effects, animation, photography, and more.

When Lawrence was in his younger years, he gripped his goal in doing what he does today simply by understanding the nature of spotting talent. While attending school, he networked by meeting classmates he knew had the talent to act, sing and perform.
Lawrence Dohini, best known as the “Man and Company hired by famed talent”, also is the same man who received a personal request by the group called “The Grunts” where Lawrence filmed Damion Slone’s (aka “Slone”) birthday party, accompanied by Mont Mulligan (aka L-Mac), where together Slone and L-Mac received the best in a memory filmed for Slone’s party. Following Lawrence also filmed “Bone thugs “N” Harmony”, a dedication to The Ashe Foundation Charity to help raise funds for Children in Africa affected by AID’s.

Dohini states “In the entertainment industry, loyalty is the most important aspect.” Being the screen writer that he is, he gained recognition since the beginning of his venture into the career of film and music entertainment. He encourages today’s youth who have a passion to enter into the same industry to do what he did at a young age, practice by constantly writing and record amature films with friends in school or even in the neighborhood they live, as he did years ago.

Lawrence found his inspiration not just through friends who he calls his family, but through the calling of performing by a special person who entered his life at the right time. Lawrence, being the athlete he is, use to play football when he was in school. Before every game, Lawrence would take a deep breath and sing a song; his way of asking for guidance before each game. A music instructor heard him sing and approached him. She knew his voice and talent is above playing football. From there, she became Lawrence’s inspiration of who he is today. Her name is Staci Della-Rocco.

“Staci approached me when she heard me singing just before I was getting ready to play a football game. Her confidence in me built my foundation at that very moment. From there, the foundation was created through her direction, guiding me to the avenue of which I am traveling today and what I do. She did this for so many people, friends and family, she became a foundation for many, most of all, I have Staci to thank for who I am today”, said Dohini.

With Lawrence and his success, of which he is today, along with being well known in the entertainment industry, there is no such phrase as “I Can’t” in Lawrence’s eyes and ears. What Lawrence emphasizes is the phrase that is a must in the entertainment industry when he defines loyalty. The phrase he expects to here is “I Will”.

When Lawrence spots talent, the very first question he will ask is “What is Your Goal”. As soon as he gets that answer, through the eyes of Lawrence Dohini, Founder of LawsLair Entertainment Group, he will make a talent of another; reach a goal in the area of the talent he spotted, happen.

Venture Out! is an Online Magazine that Delivers You News from Sports, Music and Film Entertainment, Reviews, People from all Walks of Life and More! CONTACT US! We love to hear from our readers.  Email: ContactVentureOut@gmail.com or visit www.VentureOutMagazine.com

Katrin ‘ “Boston’s Next Big Thing” – rocked Paris, France on Monday presented by HorizonVU Music and broadcast by Fréquence Orange. Performing at the AMEX Café, man did she rock.  Her sets featured songs such as “Stepping Stones” and “Wildflower” – the kind of dynamite material you’ll find on her new release “Soul Wide Open” (check out SHOP HorizonVU Music for the CD and downloads).  In addition to her own extensive original inventory, she added in covers from The Police, Led Zeppelin and Joni Mitchell which brought the house down.

Katrin takes original acoustic-based rock to new and exciting places. Her skillful guitar work and powerful voice make Katrin shine wherever she appears.

She’s returning back home where you can see her at on 17 July at the Lowell Summer Music Series http://www.lowellsummermusic.org/page.php?wpage=home/home.htm. She’s opening for Joan Armatrading,  and while we know Joan will not disapppoint (check out her new release “This Charming Life”),  in our opinion, Katrin will give a performance that more than covers the price of the ticket.

Acccording to Mike O’Cull, Riffs Magazine:

“Soul Wide Open is clearly the work of an artist who knows just what she wants and goes after it with the confidence that greatness brings. Though she tackles many moods and feels in the course of this ten-song set, Katrin’s grooves and voice tie it all together and make the tunes go down like a real album (remember those?) and not a mere collection of singles. Indeed, there is enough musical firepower here to start a national blaze if she is given the opportunity to seduce the music world at large. Here’s hoping that she gets that chance sooner rather than later, as talent like this deserves the biggest audience it can get”.

Originally from Newton MA, Katrin has been performing in New England clubs and coffeehouses since 1993. She began singing at the age of three, and started violin at age seven. Her love for songwriting was ignited when she picked up the guitar and formed a band at age eighteen. Her classical and rock n’roll background, give her music depth in both melody and rhythm. Katrin’s recent release “Nature Spirit” has been receiving great reviews- “More than just a local icon. With a voice this powerful the world is at her beck and call”-Douglas Sloan , Metronome Magazine “With a melodic, passionate songwriting style, the Boston-based Katrin is in a word; spellbinding.”-Block Island Music Festival 2005 “Katrin is a refreshing departure from the predictable world of folk and acoustic music.

Find “Soul Wide Open” and download links at SHOP HorizonVU Music http://blog.horizonvumusic.com/?page_id=1458 and listen on Fréquence Orange  http://www.frequenceorange.com/index.php

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