SouthShoreMagazine

SSM.EarlyWinter.2017

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48 Angel Dombrowski Chris Ballerini Ward Hayden Plymouth's BBC, this open mic boasts an intimate setting with no TV's, nice stage lighting, an on-site sound person and comfy seating. The open mic attracts some of the finest local talent, and it is easy to see why. I encourage anyone, regardless of your ability or experience, to pay a visit to Monday's BBC Acoustic Lounge, hosted by Hollis and Angel. You won't be disappointed. Next up is the new four-song EP, "For Those Who Need Little," by local jammers SixFoxWhiskey. Led by local singer/songwriter Chris Ballerini, this five-piece outfit features two guitars, bass, drums and saxophone. The EP kicks off with the laid back and free spirited song, "Way Up North," where the spirit of the band becomes apparent with the line, "Life is rich for those who need little," a good sentiment for a time and culture filled with consumerism and materialistic measurements. The song grooves through some tasteful jazz guitar solos, backed by Ballerini's percussive acoustic guitar style, which meshes tastefully with the laid back drums and splashy cymbals. The second song, "Empathy," which is an eight minute musical journey, pays tribute of the jam band influence that shines throughout this EP. Ballerini's acoustic guitar and vocals are reminiscent of Dave Mathews, while some tasty jazz bass lines are implicative of Phish's "You Enjoy Myself," during Mike Gordon's solo. The third track, "Savor the Day," possesses some of the qualities of Maroon 5's jazz pop sound, but with a more earthy quality. The last song, titled "Sheets to the Wind," is a showcase of the band's technical ability with a riffy acoustic guitar, which soon becomes harmonically interwoven with a chimey electric, a'la The Allman Brothers. Some nice harmonies toward the end of the track provide a nice lift. All in all, this EP is an enjoyable listen with some good musicality, a tasteful amount of social commentary and a conscious vibe. The band does well with meshing the qualities of a singer/songwriter with the spirit of a jam band. I'm looking forward to seeing how SixFoxWhiskey continues to grow. As always, this is Jay Psaros with, "The Beat," here on Boston's best shore, the South Shore! Want to connect? Please feel free to visit www.JayPsarosMusic.com or www.PBandJayRecords. com and send me a message! I'd love to hear from you. Looking for some musical happenings around the area? Check out these spots. Open Mic at Mr. Dooley's in Cohasset take place every Wednesday. The Spire Center in Plymouth continues to bring regional and national talent to their stage. This February, Will Dailey and Patrick Coman will be sharing a bill. The Next Page in Weymouth features the best of the blues every Thursday night, while The Snug in Hingham continues to showcase great acoustic acts every weekend. Stars on Hingham Harbor, with their newly renovated bar space, brings great local songwriters every weekend and Hull's The C- Note boasts a variety of events, from Dave Foley Jr.'s monthly open mic to touring regionals. Paddy Barry's in Quincy continues to curate a fine roster of local favorites. Finally, the Levitate Music Festival is starting to ramp up again as well, with early ticket sales underway.

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