by Greg Roth

Synergia Northwest will present Synergia Northwest presents Music Lessons Matter “Live,” at the legendary and historic, Moore Theater in Seattle on Saturday, May 18th. Proceeds from the event will go to benefit music programs throughout the state of Washington.

Melodic Caring Project will be streaming the concert via UStream. to a very special audience battling serious medical issues.

Synergia Northwest is expanding its focus to direct service agencies in particular Seattle Music Partners who provide a free after-school music program for underserved elementary school students in Seattle’s Central District.

Given the fact that the show will be streamed to children and teens in the hospital, MCP and Synergia Northwest make for a natural partnership.

About Melodic Caring Project

MCP is driven by the husband and wife team of Stephanie and Levi Ware. They have seen first-hand that people from other cultures and ethnicities respond to songs with lyrics they couldn’t even understand because music can be felt and understood.

MCP  is about one artist [or band] playing a LIVE and extremely personal concert for a select group of patients. That performance is filmed and streamed LIVE directly to the patients hospital bed [or home] where they can watch the show in the comfort and anonymity of their own room. Through a live-chat feature on the Ustream page, patients can chat throughout the concert with friends, family and outside supporters sending real-time messages of love and encouragement, creating a true sense of community and support. This unique service is free to the patient and free to the hospital.

About Synergia Northwest presents Music Lessons Matter “Live”

Like past Synergia Northwest shows that took place in 2010 and 2011, the special concert will feature the Synergia Northwest Orchestra, alongside of some of the Pacific Northwest’s most high profile rock and pop recording artists and selected student musicians.

Synergia Northwest concerts have helped contribute to Music Aid Northwest in bringing its“Music Matters” license plate fundraising proposal to fruition by raising capital and awareness to create a music-themed license plate. Via sales of the plates, school music programs receive the assistance needed so that current and future generations will have the opportunity to participate in music programs.

Melodic Caring Project concerts have streamed live shows, Northwest Festivals such asNorthwest LoveFest, clubs and Seattle Living Room Shows (Also an SMI Partner.)

Like in past years, the concert will feature the Synergia Northwest Orchestra alongside some of the Pacific Northwest’s most high profile rock and pop recording artists and student musicians.

This year’s musically eclectic and robust lineup will featureWalking Papers (Jeff Angell, Duff McKagan, Barrett Martin, Ben Anderson), blue-eyed soul sensation Mycle Wastman (2012 The Voice), legendary Santana drummer Michael Shrieve’s Spellbinder, Tess Henley,  DJ Kaz featuring Shyan Selah and the Garfield High School Drum Line as well as special guests Selene Vigil-Wilk (7 Year Bitch), Brendan Hill (Blues Traveler), Justin S. Davis (Strong Suit, Star Anna & The Laughing Dogs), Shawn Smith (BRAD, Satchel, Pigeonhed), Seattle student and guitar prodigy Caspian Coberly and others to be announced.

The night will also include some surprise guests. ‪Beloved Northwest radio personality Marty Riemer and  Jody Brothers will return to emcee this year’s event. As part of the evening’s multiple performances, the concert will again highlight a special musical tribute. “Music Lessons Matter” will feature a tribute to the music of The Rolling Stones; past tributes have included music from The Beatles and Sir Elton John.

For the past three years has attracted a several prominent artists representing a variety of genres. Past performers include who  have appeared with the Synergia Northwest Orchestra have included members of  Pearl Jam, Alice In Chains, Alan White, Blues Traveler, Tracy Bonham, Queensryche as well as other internationally recognized artists who call Washington State their home.  The concerts have also shined the spotlight on the area’s unique heritage and rich, diverse music community, such as the groundbreaking music of the late artist and Northwest Native American Beaver Chief, KOKON Taiko with the Seattle Seahawk’s Blue Thunder Drum Line and Dora Oliveira’s Samba Reggae Revolution.

The efforts of Synergia Northwest events over the past few years have contributed to Music Aid Northwest in bringing its “Music Matters” license plate fundraising proposal to fruition by raising funds needed to create a music-themed license plates.

Proceeds from the plates helps to support school music programs. Music Matters license plates can be purchased through any Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) office.

“We definitely are making an impact and as we grow this thing year to year we foresee more opportunity for young kids to be involved in music programs.” said Executive Producer and Music Director Michael McMorrow. “The absolute uniqueness of this event coupled with the vast talent and community oriented business leaders right here in the northwest are creating the perfect storm for success. 2013 will be a banner year for Synergia Northwest.” Seattle musician McMorrow also has hinted to other projects involving student musicians that are in various stages of development.

Seattle Music Partners believe that providing a child with the opportunity to build a foundation of musical skills, coupled with the strength of a mentoring relationship; help foster self-confidence and an overall engagement in learning.

Scott Gelband, Executive Director of SMP shared: “We are thrilled to partner with Synergia Northwest for this year’s show. SMP has been working with students in low-income schools for more than a dozen years and the opportunity to trumpet our program as part of a community event of this scale is fantastic!  Thank you for shining a spotlight on our organization and those we serve.”

Synergia Northwest Presents blends classical, contemporary, professional and student musicians into one evening of performances that unifies cultures and musical genres. The caliber of these artists, all with Washington State ties, along with a world-class conductor and orchestra has promised an evening of unforgettable musical moments that have left audiences knowing they’ve just experienced a magical event.

“MUSIC LESSONS MATTER” - SATURDAY, MAY 18, 2013

The Moore Theatre

1932 Second Avenue

Seattle, WA 98101

www.stgpresents.org

Doors 7:00pm

Show 8:00pm

TICKETS:

www.moore.boxofficeticketsales.com

VIP Seating (Row A – D) $40.00

Reserved Seating $15.00

Military Discount $12.50

Student Discount $10.00

For past coverage of Synergia Northwest go here.

To find out more about Melodic Caring Project, donate or stream a show, please visit http://www.melodiccaringproject.com.

The post Melodic Caring Project to stream Music Lessons Matter “Live” appeared first on SMI (Seattle Music Insider).

by Greg Roth

Over 3 years ago seattlemusicinsider.com was launched. Originally the site was set up as a central location for my content and social media links.

SMI has continued to evolve and add additional contributors who share the passion for music and Northwest artists.

in conjunction with the launch of the website, I launched the SMI Radio podcast. Like the website the podcast has continued to evolve from its crude beginnings. Since 2010, SMI Radio has featured interviews and music from hundreds of Northwest, national, global and eclectic artists who perform around the Puget Sound.

One year after SMI Radio launched, the show was picked up on a then fledgling home-grown, Tacoma based internet radio station, NWCZRadio.com. Like SMI, NWCZ has built a global audience.

Not only did joining NWCZ add legitimacy to the SMI show, The partnership provided a great opportunity for us to reach a larger audience. Reaching a larger audience means that the artists that we cover gain greater exposure, and that is a beautiful thing.

On April 8th, NWCZ Radio announced their partnership with The Harmon Tap Room Underground with a promise to bring you the best in Northwest bands once a month (The third Friday of every month) live.

This Friday (5/17/13) at 9:00pm at The Underground in Tacoma, Seattle Music Insider will celebrate 3 years of podcasts and our wonderful two-year partnership with NWCZRadio.com.

Our good friends from Setlist Music,  Perry Acker and Ben Union will be joining us for live sessions, and interesting conversation, which will air at a later date. We have supported these artists from the beginning of SMI and they have been a huge supporter.

Since our humble beginnings. Critical Sun Recordings has been a big supporter of us as well. We have enjoyed covering some of their artists such Furniture Girls, Darius Willrich and more. Critical Sun artist In Cahoots will also be joining us for this special event.

I will be hosting the show along with my friend and NWCZ founder Darrell Fortune.

If you are interested in attending the sessions in person it is $5.00 at the door. For more information go here.

About SMI Radio...

SMI Radio is a weekly audio magazine that takes you inside of the local music scene in Seattle and the Northwest. We feature great music from some of the finest local, regional, national and global music artists, as well as interesting conversations with them. We cover a variety of musical genres. 

SMI Radio is about our musical community and the love for music that lives inside us all.

We believe that music has the power to bring people of all races, creeds, colors and genders together through the common language of rhythm, chords, and notes. SMI Radio is committed to shining the spotlight on groups that serve the broader community via music and music education.

SMI Radio is heard on several internet Radio stations (see schedule below) in over 18 countries across the globe. We hope that you enjoy some of the past episodes and the wonderful music that our region offers the world.

The post SMI Celebrates 2 year partnership with NWCZ Radio on 5/17 appeared first on SMI (Seattle Music Insider).

Flight to Mars at Showbox @ The Market (Photo by Arlene Brown)

by Arlene Brown

This past Friday, May 11, Showbox at the Market opened its doors to the 11^th Annual Flight to Mars Benefit concert for the CCFA’s, Crohn’s and Colitis Federation of America, Northwest Chapter.  Local band Poor Moon opened the night and warmed the crowd up with their Reggae/rock feel.  The smooth voice of lead singer Christian Wargo was complimented well by the rest of the band. (Check these guys out at Capital Hill Block Party in July.  You don’t want to miss this rising band.)

Pearl Jam’s Mike McCready, who has lived with IBD for 25 years is CCFA’s most vocal advocate. He then introduced Star Anna.  Singing a couple moving songs, she mesmerized everyone with the sheer power of her voice. Keyboard genius Ty Ballie provided solid accompianment.

How can you keep Mike McCready off the stage from playing?  You simply can’t. After a bunch of raffle tickets were sold and some prizes were handed out, McCready was joined onstage by Andrew McKeag of PUSA, Loaded’s Jeff Rouse, special guest star David Coalter, members of Lazy Susan including Kim Virant’s ever powerful voice (the band split 9 years ago,) Carrie Akre, Star Anna, and many more friends. McCready even dedicated one of his own songs to the memory of friend Jennifer Jaff, who advocated for patient’s rights and started a nonprofit called Advocacy for Patients.

After nearly 2 hours of rock, soul, and just plain amazing music, how do you wrap up the evening?  With two more hours of even more chest pounding, ear piercing rock music with Flight to Mars, a tribute to 70s band UFO.  Featuring Mike McCready (guitar,) Tim DiJulio (guitar,) Gary Westlake (bass,) Mike Musberger (drums,) Ty Bailie (keyboard,) and Paul Passereli (vocals.)

CCFA is fortunate to have such an amazing and passionate advocate in Mike McCready.  And even more fortunate to be supported by all his friends and fans who attended the show.

The post Flight to Mars orbits Seattle for good cause (Photo Slideshow) appeared first on SMI (Seattle Music Insider).

Cody Beebe & The Crooks perform at Neumos for their record release show (Photo: Mocha Charlie)

by Sopeary Sok

Photos by Mocha Charlie

Cody Beebe & The Crooks performed tracks from their sophomore album Out Here at one of Capitol Hill’s favorite music spots, Neumos this past Friday (May 10, 2013.) They have shared the stage with various artists such as Rooney, Vanessa Carlton, Stevie Nicks and many more. 

Out Here was produced in Seattle at London Bridge Studios by John Goodmanson (he worked with other big names such as Death Cab For Cutie, Brandi Carlile and Nada Surf.)

Cody Beebe and The Crooks were originally formed in Seattle around 2009 where they honed their “close to the bone” sound. They released their critically acclaimed debut album, Friends of the Old Mill in June 2009 and have been trudging different roads ever since.

Out Here is an eclectic blend of different musical genres. Each track offers a different surprise. Hold the Line is a gritty and uptempo number that opens with blistering guitars, combined with rocking wall of rhythm. Beebe’s full and gritty vocals soaring over the top set the tone for the rest of the LP.

Never Too Young has a country and blues feel to it. The diversity to this album will appeal to rock lovers while still appealing to an audience with alternative tastes. The harmonious tones of acoustic instruments and violin compliment Beebe’s soft vocal styling on the last track called Counting Sheep. The tune sweeps the listener up and takes them on a mellow and peaceful journey to dreamland.

If you like organic, blues based rock music, spiced up with some heartfelt lyrics and a soulful vocal delivery, Cody Beebe & The Crooks’ newest effort delivers the goods.

The post New Music Preview: ‘Out Here’ by Cody Beebe & The Crooks (Photos) appeared first on SMI (Seattle Music Insider).

Allen Stone performs on prom night (Photo by Dan Rogers)

by Greg Roth

photos by Dan Rogers

Thursday night (5/2/13) in The Emerald City the Crocodile stage was transformed into a sparkling gym dance floor, complete with a basketball hoop and all of the accouterments. There was a photo booth so prom goers could treasure the special night forever (or at least until photo paper gives way to the world’s natural elements.) Many attendees were dressed in their prom duds and got into the spirit of the thing.

There was a general election for a prom king and queen. And of course, there was Allen Stone doing that thing he does for the throngs packed into one of Seattle’s most popular music night spots.

Prom Night with Allen Stone was an opportunity for adults to re-live prom night and for some, perhaps a chance to experience one for the first time.

The event was more than just a theme party featuring one of the hottest blue eyed soul singers in the world; it also served as a platform to announce the lineup for Bumbershoot 2013. And yes, Mr. Stone himself will be one of the featured artists. (Last year he was a featured performer at Capitol Hill Block Party.)

CAPITOL HILL BLOCK PARTY 2012: ALLEN STONE ‘SOULIDIFIES’ HIS REPUTATION (PHOTO SLIDESHOW)

At about 10:30 the good folks at One Reel, threw up a video on the screen which served to announce this year’s “bumbercrop.” Heart, Death Cab for Cutie, The Zombies, Gary Numan, Eric Burdon, Kris Orlowski, Ivan & Alyosha, Ayron Jones and The Way and many more will grace the various stages at the Seattle Center this Labor Day weekend.

For more details and complete lineup, click the link below.

Heart, Death Cab For Cutie and The Zombies will rock Bumbershoot 2013 (Photos)

Check out the photos from the prom from SMI contributor Dan Rogers.

The post Prom night in the Emerald City with Allen Stone (Photo Slideshow) appeared first on SMI (Seattle Music Insider).

Ghost BC at Showbox @ The Market (Photo by Xander Deccio)

The ghoulish and somewhat creepy Ghost BC floated into the Showbox at the Market and destroyed the joint with their brand of heavy-handed “doom rock.”

The band, currently out on tour in support of their most recent release Infestissiumam, delivered heavy riffs and moody vocals throughout the night.

The Swedish metal outfit came dressed to thrill and chill. Ghost BC was decked out in provocative and controversial stage regalia. (Envision if you will, priests that were rejected at the pearly gates by St. Peter, tossed into the fires of hell only to return to haunt the denizens of The Emerald City.

Check out some of the photos by Xander Deccio.

The post Ghost B.C. haunts Showbox at The Market (Photo Slideshow) appeared first on SMI (Seattle Music Insider).

Joe Bonamassa at The Paramount (Photo by Bill Bungard)

Photos by Bill Bungard

Joe Bonamassa  launched his U.S. tour on April 12 at the sold out Paramount in Seattle, and took fans on a very fun ride. Those who were fortunate enough to catch the guitar virtuoso walked into the venue to see a blues show, and walked out of a rock show.

Bonamassa commanded the audience with solid chops and professional stage presence. He warmed up the crowd with a mini acoustic set, and then strapped his signature Gibson Custom glossy Les Paul Goldtop and rocked the room.

He has inspired fans of all generations, including local blues guitar prodigy, Nolan Garrett, who also checked out the show.

Check out the complete setlist and photos from the show below…

The post Joe Bonamassa puts on blues rock guitar clinic at The Paramount (Photo Slideshow) appeared first on SMI (Seattle Music Insider).

by Xander Deccio

Southern California punk rock legends and Warped Tour favorite; Bad Religion packed Showbox SoDo last Monday (April 8.)Fans of all ages came out to see the band celebrate their thirty year history. The band came up in the scene around the same time as the seminal So Cal punk band Social Distortion were peeling the paint off the walls with their own high octane, “in your face” sound.

Bad Religion is currently out on tour in support of their latest release True North which dropped in January.

The post Bad Religion Tears Up Seattle’s Showbox SoDo (Photo Slideshow) appeared first on SMI (Seattle Music Insider).

Carrie Watt, Greg Roth and Kristen Watt (Photo By Mocha Charlie)

by Greg Roth

Kristen and Carrie Watt have real love for well-crafted music and artists who touch the heart and soul. It is out of that passion that they decided to host live concerts in a living room. Thus was born Seattle Living Room Shows. The homegrown and organic concert series is a unique way to see a live concert in the Seattle area.

All of the shows take place in a home setting or a “secret” Seattle venue where you will be face to face with some of the best up-and-coming musicians from around the country.

The Watt sisters provide an intimate setting for both musician and listener, which they feel brings the music back to where it should be. No big stages, PA systems or light rigs, just a pure musical experience that connects fans to the music and music to the fans.

On this week’s episode of SMI Radio, the sisters Watt  chat about the big 5 year anniversary show taking place this Saturday, April 27th.

Carrie and Kristen share tales memorable moments from past events and the many artists that have made SLS appearances, and talk about their unique partnership with Melodic Caring Project.

Also, we spin selected tracks from past Seattle Living Room Show artists Allen Stone, Levi Weaver, Kris Orlowski, Shane Alexander, Ivan & Alyosha, Ravenna Woods and  The Local Strangers.

Congratulations, Carrie And Kristen Watt, for 5 brilliant years of bringing the best artists in the Northwest and beyond to the music loving masses!

For past episodes of SMI Radio on the go, click on any of the icons below…

Listen to SMI Radio streaming each week…

• Thursday night at 7:00pm (Pacific Time) / 10:00pm (Eastern Time) on:  NWCZ Radio 
• Thursday night at 8:00 (Pacific Time) / 11:00pm (Eastern Time) on: Rok Out Radio (Scranton, PA)
• Saturday morning at 10:00am (Pacific Time) / 12:00pm (Eastern Time) on:  Seattle Wave / Night Out Radio 
• Saturday night at 11:00pm (Eastern Time) / 8:00pm (Pacific Time) and then again at 3:00am (Eastern Time) / midnight (Pacific Time) on:  SRrocks.com (Philadelphia)
• Wednesday night at 9:00pm (Pacific Time) / midnight on:  Seattle Wave / Night Out Radio 

The post SMI Radio Ep. 91 On Demand: Carrie and Kristen Watt (Seattle Living Room Shows 5 Year Anniversary Special) appeared first on SMI (Seattle Music Insider).

Macklemore & Ryan Lewis (Photo by Mat Hayward)

by Greg Roth

The city of Seattle is the shining star in the new Macklemore and Ryan Lewis music video released last week. The video is for the chart topping duo’s most recent single Can’t Hold Us. The catchy tune can be heard in a recent Microsoft commercial and is the follow up to their mega-hit Thrift Shop.

Macklemore and Lewis recently performed both songs on Saturday Night Live.

Like the video for Thrift Shop, this one was directed by on Jon Jon Augustavo (He also directed the Vicci Martinez video “Come Along”) features a menu of Northwest scenes that include snow capped mountains, beach scenes and lush forests, but it is The Emerald City that shines the brightest in the video, which includes a stunning rooftop scene shot last month.

Of course now video featuring Seattle would be complete without Seattle’s most iconic landmark. Thus, The Heist flag flies proudly above the Space Needle.

We shot it on six different continents, It’s crazy. There’s a camel. There’s dogsledding. There are white people, black people, a frat party. We just went for it.

This was over a 16-day music video shoot, which I’ve never heard of before, It was a huge project; it was cut all over the place. We started cutting at South By Southwest, in a little hotel room, and we’ve been finishing it ever since, or trying to finish it. It’s just been a massive project.

-Macklemore  - MTV News backstage at the MTV Movie Awards.

Lewis and Macklemore will be headlining Sasquatch! 2013.

The post Seattle stars in the new Macklemore and Ryan Lewis video appeared first on SMI (Seattle Music Insider).