Stellium with Lisa Kettyle

Lara and StelliumI finally saw Loretta Allen perform with her new group, Stellium, which was also the first time I had seen her peform at all other than her birthday parties since 2007. I've wanted to hear her perform with a band that fills out and supports her songs. No bass needed for this trio, her bandmates laid down a nice jam and Loretta's vocals floated above. Lisa Kettyle opened for her friend one last time, I had a feeling that she would be there. There weren't a whole lot of people there other than their friends but we were having a good time.

Lisa Kettyle

A Double Shot Of JAB

With Eric at the Villa Capri. Don't worry, the "David" statue behind them is not anatomically correct.I haven't written about JAB before but I thought that this was the time. They recently played two shows on consecutive nights right before Easter. First they were at the Red Stallion, their usual hangout. Unlike other recent shows they had there they took the stage after a pop song cover band and a large group of people were there to see that group. The regulars didn't care much for them but I actually enjoyed their take on some '80s and '90s tunes. I also got to meet Tara's two brothers who came out to see JAB for the first time. When JAB came up they got two full sets and were able to stretch out a bit, which is the way it should be. Former singer Jack was there and came up for a song. The next night they were at the Villa Capri, an Italian restaurant in Doylestown with Steve Bullman. Less people were there for that show but Ethan, Linzi and Tommy did come which was a surprise.

Here are some pics from the Red Stallion Show:

With Jack onstage:

A Farewell To Lisa

Lisa KettyleLisa Kettyle, a singer/songwriter who I had met thanks to Lara Allen, will be moving to Austin in May. Recently the Red Stallion's Thursday Open Mic bid her a farewell, which also served as an unofficial going away party. Brian from the Pheromones came out and played a few Goo Goo Dolls and Matchbox Twenty covers. Fran Carroll, who is a regular at this open mic, had also played at the Richies' Tuesday Open Mic.

Laura Cheadle Move(s) On

Laura Cheadle celebrated the release of her new album "Move On" as well as her 23rd birthday at the North Star Bar. She played most of the new album and few older requests.

The Pheromones @ The Red Stallion 1/17

 The new "old" Pheromones with Pat returning on bassThe Pheromones supported their friends at the Downboys' last show at the Red Stallion. Brian, now the drummer for the band, spent hours before the show setting up some new speakers which really improved the vocal and drum sound. That improvement was unneeded by the opener, an acoustic act who played much too long. Due to the length of the Downboys' set the Pheromones didn't start until after one o'clock. However, the Stallion management allowed them to play their entire scheduled set which lasted until a quarter past two. Brian played great and the band finally came together in this new incarnation. They played a new cover, "Flagpole Sitta" by Harvey Danger.