Craig Sonnenfeld
Bold, not Old
While no spring chicken, Craig Sonnenfeld has proven he is not chicken of anything. His return to music after a long absence was inspired, in part, by a trip to see the Rolling Stones in Concert. "I thought if those geezers can still pull it off, I could too." 

Want to talk about something getting old?  The young guns on Boston's acoustic scene fire blanks in the form John Mayer and Dave Matthews styled crooning. These so-called rebels may score points with the coeds, but not with real fans of folk. Sonnefeld is the real thing, taking the risk of returning to music after a several decade departure to become a responsible adult.

Sonnenfeld's new release, Storm Clouds Rising, is a somber romp, with little comic relief. Although the mood is low, his style, writing, and story are sure to propel him to prominence in the New England folk scene. 

So what if a middle-aged IT professional, husband, and father is far more likely to have a pocket protector and a beer gut than an acoustic guitar and a growing fan base in the Boston area. Craig Sonnenfeld can still pull it off! 

Amusia
Your History
When does a CD occupy more than your stereo?  Its songs echo through your daily routine and seem embedded in all that you do. That has happened for me a number of times in my life. Albums by Sarah McLachlan and Tracy Chapman are among the few that have become identifiable with a particular time in my life.

Amusia's Way Back Down is more than a collection of songs. The record serves as both a signpost for the present and as a reminder that greatness is something that isn't necessarily produced in million dollar studios or picked by the music industry's A&R sleaze. It's not a formula or a plan, its hard work married to creative ability at the right moment.

This moment belongs to the trio lead by vocalist Ruth Peterson with brothers Todd and Matt Russell on guitar and drums. Haunting, melodic, intricate, and original, Way Back Down is set to serve as the launching pad for the one the greatest bands in the history of Boston music.

The JKirks
Artistry and Activism – It’s All in the Family
When my Dad asks me to do something, it usually involves handing him tools or a Budweiser. I love my Dad, but I can't say that he and I share the same talents. He has an incredible mechanical ability. I am on a first name basis with the guys at my Jiffy Lube. Not to mention that tuning into his favorite radio station requires a flux capacitor.

Thirteen-year-old sax sensation Jackson Kirk has inherited great musical ability and stage presence from band mate and father John. Together, father and son have formed one of the coolest, most socially aware acts in local music. Both are known for their service work and peace activism as much as their amazing acoustic rock sound.

I will have the special privilege of hosting an event with The JKirks on January 20 at 8pm at Lincoln Street Coffee in Newton, MA. Jackson and John join me as I begin building awareness for rock4research.org, my proposed partnership with the Jimmy Fund planned to begin in the spring of 2006. We hope to see you there! 

More info:
www.thejkirks.com
www.rock4research.org
www.lincolnstreetcoffee.com