Matt Alber & Brendan Sweet Rogers • To Make You Feel My Love

Today I will be attending the wedding of my nephew, Scott, to his significant other, Cheryl. To mark this special occasion, I thought I would start the day with a romantic duet I can't get enough of. I have long been a fan of handsome and talented Matt Alber, and have been lucky enough to see him perform live on a couple of different stages. I was not, however, at his show in London in August of this year, at the Royal Vauxhall Tavern. Alber was joined on stage by Brendan Sweet Rogers, and English singer/songwriter I have recently discovered thanks to Alber, and have also developed a crush on him. His voice makes an interesting counterpoint to Alber's on Bob Dylan's "To Make You Feel My Love". Here they are performing the song live.

"To Make You Feel My Love" can be found on Matt's latest album, 'Wind Sand Stars'. I heard it first there, and instantly fell for it. And looked up and purchased all the music I could by Rogers. You can purchase "To Make You Feel My Love" from iTunes and Amazon. For more about Matt Alber, visit his official website. You can also 'follow' him on Twitter, and 'like' him on Facebook. To learn about Brendan Rogers, you can visit his official website. You can also 'follow' him on Twitter, and 'like' him on Facebook. I will soon be sharing some of Brendan's music with you.

Matt Alber • Wind, Sands, Stars

Much like everyone else, I can be a squealing, squeeing fan of a handsome boy with a guitar, or a striking man with limber fingers at a piano. So it should come as no surprise I get a palpatation ro two when I see or hear singer/songwriter Matt Alber, and I refuse to apologize for it. You see, the man is so very talented, singing with a voice that is so pure, so sweet. Since the first time I heard him sing, I've been hooked. And it never hurts he cuts a dashing figure when he sings, with a smile that can light up any stage. He has made music that takes my breath away, like his soaring "End of the World", or that takes me on a journey, like "Velvet Goldmine", or that lifts up my soul, like "Tightrope".

It seems I have little hope of things changing, for I will continue to to be amazed by Alber, at least his latest release, 'Wind, Sand, Stars', is any indication. You see, that is his new album, and once again, Matt has captured another piece of my heart that I hope he never gives back. The 10-song collection once again takes us on a journey, like we are the tail of Matt's kite. Sometimes we are soaring up high with him, and other times we are swooping down nearer the ground. But the entire time, we are braced by the air he breathes out as he tells us his tales. The journey beings with "Handsome Man", Matt's song dedicated to that special someone in everyone's life. It is funny, but everyone thinks their partner is that handsome man. It is funny, because it is so often true. Next up is the sweeping romance of a song that touches my heart. This is Matt singing "Spectacularly".

On the third track, we get the first of the trio of songs that make up the title of this collection. There is something that is at once quiet yet powerful in the instrumental "The Wind". We do hear Matt's voice, coming in much like an expressive woodwind, flavoring the song. I was seeing a wonderful dance choreographed in my mind. Next up, there is "House on Fire", a song with elements of Country lacing the Pop song. IT manages to combine strength and charm to warm my heart. "Joe Wolfe" begins with a conversation with an 80-year-old man who just came out to friends and family, which just makes me so damn happy. Soon, I heard a track that captured to joy of the voice. The sixth track is the only one not written by Matt, but it is pretty good. "To Make You Feel My Love" was written by Bob Dylan, and sung by so many since. On this recording, Matt is joined by London-based Brendon Sweet Rogers, and I love it. It made me go find Brendan's music, for I am now a fan. This is Alber and Rogers with "To Make You Feel My Love".

There is something evocative about the next song up, "New York City". It captures the emotions when you first enter into the city, not knowing what to expect. The music captures the excitement and nervousness, rising and falling like your heartbeat when you first see Times Square. Next, we have the second of the trio, "The Sand". Much like the first, it is an instrumental that utilizes vocals to color and warm the way. That is followed by "Rescue", a song that takes a look at the many different kinds of rescues in our lives. This is the song.

I love the saxophone in the song, it really complements both Matt's voice, and the sound of the piano. It really makes it a bit sexier. And that brings us the to the final track of the album, which is also the final entry in the trio of title songs. "The Stars" is a bit more pensive than the others, and a bit more expansive. When the vocals joins in, I feel it only heightens the wonder. There is something so dreamy, and a bit hypnotic about the trio of instrumentals that I love. So that is 'Wind Sand Stars', which is less Pop than Matt previous releases, but instead a bit moodier, a little more ponderous. In the end, I feel a little seduced by Matt with this album, and that is not a bad thing at all. You can purchase 'Wind, Sand, Stars' from iTunes, CD Baby, and Amazon. For more about Matt Alber, visit his official website. You can also "like" him on Facebook, and 'follow' him on Twitter.

Matt Alber • Spectacularly

Matt Alber is still as talented as ever, and you can tell with a quick listen of his new song, "Spectacularly". The song will be featured on his upcoming album 'Wind, Sand, Stars', due out on April 1, 2014. The song, featured on this brand new music video shot on the California coast, is just so lovely, taking care to caress the heart just right, before taking it on a journey that soars to heights with ease and grace. This is Matt's music video for "Spectacularly".

As Matt puts his finishing touches on the new album, he is offering it for pre-order. There are two different packages for your consideration, the 'Wind Sand Stars' CD/Digital/Video Preorder Package and the 'Wind Sand Stars' Deluxe Vinyl LP/CD/Flashdrive Preorder Package. The first package costs $25, and offers you an Instant Download of a new song, "Spectacularly" (mp3 format for Mac & PC), the Compact Disc, signed, Digital download of the album + unreleased tracks, and a Digital HD Music Video download. The latter package costs $85, and offers you an Instant download of a new song from the album, "Spectacularly" (mp3 format for Mac & PC), a Limited Edition Vinyl LP, signed featuring selections from the album, a Limited Edition 2GB Flashdrive, featuring "WIND SAND STARS" + unreleased tracks & HD music video, a Compact Disc, signed (full album), and a Digital Album Download (MP3) & Digital Lyric Booklet. To place your order, click on Matt's online store.

For more about Matt Alber, visit his official website. While you are there, you can join his mailing list, to be kept up to date on the latest from Alber. You can also "like" him on Facebook, and 'follow' him on Twitter. If you haven't purchased Matt last album, Constant Crows, you can find it on iTunes, Amazon, and CD Baby.

Weekend Starters by SIRPAUL, Matt Alber, Cazwell, and Darren Ockert

Clockwise: Music from SIRPAUL, Matt Alber, Cazwell, and Darren Ockert.

I just decided to put together a post of some recent singles released by some of my favorite artists, all ready to make your weekend that much better, for a Friday morning post to kick off your weekend with style. Four out and proud artists, all making music that makes you wanna get out of your chair and shake your groove thing like there was no tomorrow. They all take on love in a different way, in a different form. But whether the beat is bold and bright, or is smooth and sleek, the singers are tie it all together with exceptional performances. Our first cut is a perfect example of this, as SIRPAUL sings "Every Single Moment", his hot single off his just-released album 'Seventh Star'. SIRPAUL sings about love so strong, you don't want to be apart from that special someone even for a moment. So please enjoy SIRPAUL singing "Every Single Moment".

"Every Single Moment" can be found on 'Seventh Star', which is available for purchase from iTunes and Amazon. To learn more about SIRPAUL, visit his official website. You can also find him in the social medias, 'like' him on Facebook, and 'follow' him on Twitter. On his recent album 'Constant Crows', he included a track he wrote, "Tightrope". The acoustic track, with an underlying Latin beat that is kinda sexy, has a softness that truly warms the heart. For me, the song is about new love, when you are trying to see if someone can meet you in the middle, so you don't have to show too much. Well, some wonderful DJs remixed the song, and gave it more urgency, a bit of an edge. Matt packaged a few of the remixes, and made them available on iTunes, and made a fun new video as well. This is the official music video for "Tightrope" by Matt Alber.

You can purchase the Remixes from iTunes and Amazon. The proceeds benefit Larkin Street Youth Services, a charity that helps out with homeless and runaway Youth. To learn more about Larkin Street, visit their official website. For more about Matt Alber, visit his official website. While you are there, you can join his mailing list, to be kept up to date on the latest from Alber. You can also "like" him on Facebook, and 'follow' him on Twitter. While the album 'Short Story Long' just came out this week, the single and music video for "Crumbs" surfaced a few weeks ago, and it is a song I play again and again. From the stadium stomping at the beginning, you know Ockert means business. The song is about the search for love, for the person ready to let down the walls and invite you in. He's looking for it all, not just what crumbs someone has to offer him. I hope you enjoy the official music video for Darren Ockert's "Crumbs".

"Crumbs" can be found on the album 'Short Story Long', which can be purchased from iTunes and CD Baby, or you can purchase the CD from Amazon. For more about Darren Ockert, visit his official website. You can also 'like' him on Facebook, or 'follow' him on Twitter. And last, but certainly not least, we have rapper Cazwell exploring a whole different kind of love, the, well, love of self. No, not that kind, but when you feel the need to share endless photos of yourself in various poses and states of undress on all the social media platforms. We all know at least one or two people like that right? Well, Cazwell captures them perfectly with the song "No Selfie Control", and looks damn good doing it. And, best of all, sounds great, too! Have a blast with Cazwell as he sings "No Selfie Control".

You can purchase "No Selfie Control" from iTunes. To learn more about Cazwell, visit his official website. You can also 'like' him on Facebook, and 'follow' him on Twitter. And have a great weekend, and don't forget to take some advice from KC, of KC & the Sunshine Band, and "do a little dance, make a little love, and get down tonight!"

Matt Alber • Tightrope Music Video

Matt Alber has released a new music video, This one featuring "Tightrope" a song off his latest release, 'Constant Crows'. The video features the Redfield Remix of "Tightrope", which is available for purchase. In fact, the proceeds from the sales of the single will go to a charity for at risk youth. In the music video, Alber plays four different roles, all painted with a stylish broad stroke by Matt. Now, it doesn't take much encouragement for me to listen to Matt singing, and this music video offers delights to the eyes and the ears. This is Matt Alber  with his video for "Tightrope".

You can purchase the Remixes from iTunes and Amazon. The proceeds benefit Larkin Street Youth Services, a charity Matt has supported before with single sales. To learn more about Larkin Street, visit their official website. Once there, you can also donate directly to them to help out with homeless and runaway Youth. For more about Matt Alber, visit his official website. While you are there, you can join his mailing list, to be kept up to date on the latest from Alber. You can also "like" him on Facebook, and 'follow' him on Twitter. You can purchase Constant Crows on iTunes, Amazon, and CD Baby.

Matt Alber • Tightrope Reddfield Remix

As we start the weekend, it seemed like a great time to visit with Matt Abler, the talented singer/songwriter with a truly versatile voice. Matt first came to the attention of many when he was a vocalist with Chanticleer, the amazing men's chorus that takes on Classical music, as well as Pop. On his latest album, 'Constant Crows', he offers up some intimate Pop music that speaks from the heart. One of the tracks off the album, "Tightrope", was instantly one of my favorites. Here is a live recording of the song, from an interview on SiriusXM in March of this year.

Now, while you might think thinks couldn't get any better than that, Matt has released a two new remixes of "Tightrope", the "Reddfield Deep Radio Edit" and the "Reddfield Deep Extended Edit". Both take that gorgeous song and repackage it with a sleek new cover, complete with beats that make you want to get out of your chair and move!

The cover (above) isn't the only thing that is bright and colorful! The stylish and sexy remixes put a new sheen on a gorgeous song written by the talented man. In case you'd like a little sample of the delicious new confection, here is a minute tease of the real thing!

You can purchase the "Tightrope" Remixes from iTunes and Amazon. Due to Matt's generosity, you can get a FREE DOWNLOAD of that live acoustic recording of "TightRope" from his SiriusXM appearance in March here. You can also buy his video performing "Tightrope" from 'With Strings Attached', his live performance with the Cello Street Quartet from his official online store. For more about Matt, and to check out his upcoming tour dates, visit his official website. To purchase 'Constant Crows', the latest release by Matt Alber, you can find it on iTunes, Amazon or Matt's online store. By the way, Matt is starting a Midwest leg of his tour with the wonderful Tom Goss, a show that is not to be missed!

Cover Songs Served Live

Clockwise: Matt Alber in Philadelphia, Pa; Tom Goss in Washington, DC; Matt & Tom in Philadelphia, PA; and Stewart Lewis in Wilmington, DE. Photos by me.

If all has gone well, I will be at the Tin Angel in Philadelphia, listening to the amazing Eric Himan and his musical support, the Soultré Sisters. So I thought it only fair you get some live music as well, from shows I been to in the area, and taken pictures and videos that I can share with you. While they has some amazing music of his own, I thought it might be fun to show clips of cover songs, something that always brings the audience in even closer. First up, I offer the very handsome and very talented Matt Alber, who I have been lucky enough to see a couple of times. At his show in Philadelphia, PA, with Tom Goss, Matt did a couple of covers, but I was particularly enamored with his take on the Katrina and the Waves hit, "Walking On Sunshine". It was a hit for Katrina 30 years ago, but Matt gives it a little "Alber" shine, and makes it feel new. So here is Matt Alber singing "Walking On Sunshine".

I have seen a couple of shows of Tom Goss recently. Sometimes, it just works out like that. For the clip tonight, I decided to go with a performance from a show he did with Eric Himan at The Dunes in Washington, DC. It was just after Tom had released his take on "Can't Hold Us", written and made famous by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis, off their 2012 album 'The Heist'. Tom does an amazing job with the song, putting together the layers live with a deft hand. Turn up the volume and enjoy Tom Goss performing "Can't Hold Us".

I took this clip from a show in Wilmington, DE. Wilmington-based promoters Gable Music put together an evening of singer/songwriters, utilizing both local and not-so-local talent. Stewart let me know he would be in the area, and I couldn't wait to see him live again. He has a wonderful voice, and has a way to use subtle changes to really communicate with the listeners. While he did mostly original tunes, he had fun with a medley of hit songs, showing a light hand with editing on the fly with some old and new favorites everyone knows. Enjoy Stewart Lewis as he sings the "Hit Song Medley", and feel free to join in with him, for the live audience did!

Finally, I will return to the show in Philadelphia, with Matt Alber and Tom Goss sharing the bill. Both men are talented songwriters, and early in the show, Matt joined Tom on a performance of Tom's charming song, "Till The End". While the audience was familiar with the music of both men, I don't think anyone was ready for when they joined together for a duet. They took to the stage, and did a stunning acoustic version of "If I Ain't Got You" by Alicia Keys. Matt played the piano, and it was the first time I ever remember seeing Tom perform without playing an instrument! I hope you Matt & Tom singing "If I Ain't Got You".

Have a great night!

Live Music • Matt Alber & Tom Goss

Matt Alber, left, and Tom Goss, right.

I am very excited, for tonight, barring any hangups is traffic, I shall be listening to the amazing music of Matt Alber and Tom Goss, and that just sounds perfect to me. I have been a fan of both for some time, and their music has spoken to me on so many levels. And while their music might be not share the same style, both certainly have a wonderful emotional base, as well as a melodic purity that I find really appealing. And it never hurts that I have met both, and find them to be such nice men as well. To show you what a time I will be having, I thought I would feature some of their music in this post. And I will begin with a song from Matt, who recently released a DVD that is both beautifully shot and so sweet to listen to. Alber joined forces with The Cello Street Quartet, and made this live recording that is so lush, yet so simple at the same time, I never tire of playing it. So I picked "Tightrope", but I could have easily chosen any of the songs, and been just as happy to share it.

Tom recently made a video of a new song, a bit of a departure for him. Tom has a catalog of songs that is so deep, he rarely sings a cover song. In fact, I have been to shows when I have loved every song,but later realized there was a favorite of mine I missed. So I was a bit surprised when he released the video for "Can't Hold Us", an acoustic cover of the song by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis. But he did it his way, playing all the music himself, making textured music by adding layers recorded live and making it all grow together. Not sure yet? Well, check out Tom's version of "Can't Hold Us" for yourself.

When I first saw the video for Matt's "End of the World", I was aware of him as a singer, but this really brought home just how stunning his gift was. I mean, that gorgeous voice, with that interpretation that just touched the very core of my heart, it blew me away then, and still does today. What is even more mind blowing is when I heard it live, and I can honestly tell you I still got goosebumps. So with no more delay, here is Matt singing "End of the World".

And finally, I have one more song, this one from dear Tom. I couldn't decide which to choose, so I finally went with the music video I appeared in, along with my sister and niece. We made the trip to Washington, DC, to do something we haven't before, and to participate in a video for a singer/songwriter we all love. We had a great day, and are now thrilled to be in a video we love to watch. The song is "It's All Over", off Tom's album 'Turn It Around'.

For more about Tom Goss, including his tour schedule, visit his official website. For more about Matt, and to check out his upcoming tour dates, visit his official website. To purchase the most recent release from Tom Goss, 'Lost Songs and Underdogs', you can find it on iTunes and Amazon. To purchase 'Constant Crows', the latest release by Matt Alber, you can find it on iTunes, Amazon or Matt's online store.

Friday Mix-Up

Clockwise: Casey Stratton; B.Slade; Angelo; and Matt Alber

It is Friday, the first official day of the weekend, so I thought I would post some fun remixes of great songs by artists I truly respect. A couple of these picks are surprising nuggets, while others are bound to get you shakin' your booty, which is never a bad thing. I picked these four songs and artists to show what a wonderful array of music is being made by gay men. All four songs are very different, and the same could be said about the artists. I will begin with one of those 'surprises', Casey Stratton. While it might be unexpected from people who are more used to Casey's more emotive/expressive music, I will admit I have a collection of remixes, which kinda inspired this post. I am absolutely crazy for Casey's "Opaline (Clandestine Mix)", which appears on his 'Altered States: Remixes Volume One' album.

You can find 'Altered States Remixes Volume One" in Casey's official Online Store. There are plenty of other great songs for you to enjoy. Next up, I decided to go with Los Angeles-based B.Slade with a great track from his 'Deep Purple' album. I find there is something so subtle and sweet about "2 GET 2 (Hookah Lounge Mix)", yet at the same time it has a sexy feel, too. The song can be found on the 2012 album, 'Deep Purple', which quickly became a favorite of mine.

You can purchase 'Deep Purple' on B.Slade's BandCamp page, iTunes, or Amazon. For the next song, I thought I would through in another artist you might not traditionally associate with Dance music. Singer/songwriter came to the attention of many when he released his first music video, "End of the World", in 2009. The song is beautiful and expansive, part Chamber music, and part Pop Icon. The song was featured on the album 'Hide Nothing', an enchanting collection. Last year, he released 'Constant Crows', a much more personal, intimate collection. But he also worked on a couple of song with Saul Ruiz, both updates of some great classic songs. One of those was the Fleetwood Mac song "Dreams", written by Stevie Nicks. Ruiz gave it a new feel with the mix, and used the strength of Alber's voice perfectly. Enjoy listening to Saul Ruiz featuring Matt Alber on "Dreams (Original Mix)".

You can purchase Saul Ruiz's "Dreams (Original Mix)" featuring Matt Alber on iTunes or Amazon. Last year, the handsome and talented Angelo released a great new album, 'Narcissus Drowned'. One of the songs featured on the album was released in 2011 as a single, with several remixes available. There is so much strength and power on Angelo's "Hands Down (Famuel Remix)", I found it irresistible. It gets me up and on my feet every time I hit play, smiling and moving in the Studio 54 in my head.

You can purchase Angelo's "Hands Down (Famuel Remix)" on iTunes or Amazon. You can also purchase 'Narcissus Drowned' on iTunes, Amazon, and CD Baby.

Valentines For Independent Hearts

Clockwise: Jake Walden; Matt Alber; Billy Porter, and Bobby Jo Valentine.

This morning, I brought you a collection of love songs that was heard on mainstream radio in the 1980s, so I thought for tonight, I would venture into the more independent music of some amazing LGBT artists I listen to all the time. And, as you can tell from the pictures above, they also happen to be very handsome, too. And they all deliver these songs like only they can, making it very special, indeed. I will begin with a song written by singer/songwriter Jake Walden for his sister's wedding. He wanted to capture the love of the event, as well as the love he felt for her, all into this song. It was later included on his most recent album, 'Same Something Different'. He also released a music video including images from the wedding. Enjoy as Jake sings "For You Anything".

The next song comes from an artist how continually manages to surpass my expectations. When I first heard Matt Alber's recording of "End of the World", I was blown away. When I first heard him live, I didn't think he could equal that, yet he did, perhaps even topped it. When I heard he rerecorded it, I was excited to hear what he could do with it. When I saw the video of Matt singing it live with the Cello Street Quartet, I was once again astonished. Hit play, and allow Matt Alber to take you away with "End of the World".

Bobby Jo Valentine is a more recent addition to my playlist, having only discovered his music last year. But that has not kept me from falling hard for his music, which has more charm than a Disney parade. His latest release, 'Home' wraps you up warmly in Bobby Jo's voice. With his recently released music video for "Come Back To Bed", there is a wonderful intimacy, both in the performance and the song.

I am a huge fan of Billy Porter, and the final entry is one of the reasons why. Porter is a gifted performer, both in the studio and on the stage. I think most people became familiar with the vocal talents of Porter when he sang "Love Is On the Way", featured in the 1996 film 'The First Wives Club'. It was also on his 1997 album, 'Untitled'. And there is a magnificent live version of the song on 'At The Corner of Broadway & Soul', a truly great album. Here is Billy singing the song live on Rosie O'Donnell's talk show about the time the single was playing on the radio.

You can purchase all these songs online. You can find Jake Walden's 'Same Something Different' on iTunes, CD Baby and Amazon. You can find Matt Alber's 'With Strings Attached' at his online store, and his latest album, 'Constant Crows', on iTunes, Amazon, and CD Baby. You can purchase Bobby Jo Valentine's 'Home' on iTunes and Amazon. You can purchase Billy Porters 'At The Corner of Broadway and Soul' on iTunes and Amazon.

Matt Alber • 'With Strings Attached' Pre-Order

Matt Alber is in the final stages of putting together an exciting new DVD, with Matt giving a live performance with The Cello Street Quartet, an amazingly talented group of cellists. Matt will be performing with them, giving a new sound to his great music. Rather than have me tell you about it, why not let Matt explain it to you? And you can also sample some great music.

STRINGS ATTACHED TRAILER from Greg Sirota on Vimeo.

Sounds great doesn't it? Sound like something you'd enjoy watching? To place your order for 'With Stringss Attached', visit Matt here. For more about Matt Alber, visit his official website. While you are there, you can join his mailing list, to be kept up to date on the latest from Alber, including live shows. You can also "like" him on Facebook. You can purchase Matt latest album, Constant Crows, on iTunes, Amazon, and CD Baby. To learn more about the Cello Street Quartet, visit their official website. Click on the 'Videos' tab and check out some of their music.

Tom Goss • Atlas Theater

On Sunday, I wrote of my special night at the Atlas Theater in Washington, DC, but only half of it. It was my first show by Matt Alber, and it was great. But another amazing singer/songwriter was there as well, one I can' get enough of. Tom Goss was there to open for his friend, and offer us his own unique brand of Rock and Folk with a stirring set of old favorites as well as some new ones. Tom split his time between the guitar and the piano, but never before sharing some intimacies of the songwriting process, or maybe just a glimpse into his life.



Tom certainly put down the Rock when he gave the audience a rousing "Turn It Around", the title cut from the recent album of the same name. Before the song began, he spoke about the last time Matt and Tom were supposed to play in DC, for I had a ticket. Just couldn't get there with the State of Emergency keeping cars off the road... But nothing stopped me this time, and you can tell by this video.



Tom played another song off the album, Turn It Around. "Make Believe" is a rocking and rolling ball of fire, powered by love. And I have to believe Tom is powered by something special, for he gets his groove on, dancing around the stage during the song. Hopefully, I have able to capture a bit of the spirit of his performances.



I was just so damned happy he sang the next song, for I feel it has a great history for me. You see, when I first saw Tom several years ago, as he was singing this one, I realized I would be hooked for life. The lyrics are just so beautiful, so poetic, and so real, I knew I'd be buying his music when he was finished playing. That is when I discovered the song was called "Rise", and I purchased the EP of the same name. And his previous album, Naked Without, with the startling picture of Tom naked on the cover. Ah, but that is another album. Enjoy the always stunning "Rise".



When it came time for another favorite, Tom asked Matt Alber to join him on the stage to play the piano while Tom continued on the guitar. As Tom began to sing the song off the Back To Love album, he couldn't help but stop the song to offer just a bit more insight into the situation we were experiencing live. That Tom, he always seems to find it hard to NOT tell a good story. Thankfully, he does it so well. Like much of what he has ever done, as far as I am concerned. So here is Tom singing "Till The End", with a lovely helping hand from Matt Alber.



For more about Tom Goss, visit his official website. It is just been updated, so if you haven't for a bit, you should check it out now! You can purchase his album Turn It Around on iTunes and Amazon. It features the first two songs in the post. You can also purchase his latest, Lost Songs and Underdogs, on iTunes and Amazon.

Matt Alber • Live at the Atlas

Matt Alber on stage in Washington, DC.

It might have been drizzling on the way to Washington, DC, but once I was sitting in my seat at the Atlas Theater, the clouds were gone and life was good. No, it was great. You see, two years ago, when Tom Goss and Matt Alber scheduled a show in DC, I eagerly scooped up a ticket, and eagerly awaited the show. Until the snows came, and the highways were shut down, and I couldn't attend. Perhaps that it why a bit of rain did not daunt me on August 19th. The show started with a set by Tom Goss, which I will talk about in a later post. After an intermission, it was Matt Alber's turn to take the stage, you could feel the anticipation in the air. He played many songs from the new album, Constant Crows, including the beautiful "Velvet Goldmine".



In case that video wasn't proof enough, Alber was in great voice for the show. He was sweet and tender when needed, and soaring and grand when called on. Matt's vocals have such amazing quality and depth, I just wanted to curl up and listen, wrapped in his voice. You can hear all the qualities in the song "Tightrope", also off the Constant Crows album.



When I listen to that, I think "Tightrope" could be my favorite off the album. Until I hear the next song. They are all that good. However, I don't think the evening would have been compete without a couple of songs off his 2008 album, Hide and Seek. And more specifically, the great song and video from that album, "End Of The World". When I mentioned his voice could soar, it was on songs like this that makes it so very true. I have to tell you, listening live, I got goosebumps three times while he was singing this song alone. So please enjoy Matt as he sings "End of the World".



Finally, I thought I would include Matt's latest single, one he released to raise money for charity. The song was also a tribute to the late, great Whitney Houston, whose voice was such an inspiration to so many artists. And when he began his simple and restrained acoustic version of "I Wanna Dance With Somebody". As he started playing hints of the tune on his guitar, he offered a look into his life, making it that much more special when he sang his favorite Whitney song.



For more about Matt Alber, visit his official website. While you are there, you can join his mailing list, to be kept up to date on the latest from Alber, including live shows. If you can make it, go. Don't wonder about it, just get you ticket and be glad. You can also "like" him on Facebook. You can purchase Constant Crows on iTunes, Amazon, and CD Baby. You can also purchase the single "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" on iTunes, Amazon and CD Baby. The money goes to the Larkin Street Youth Services. For more about Larkin Street, visit their official website.

Tom Goss, Matt Alber & Avi Wisnia • Live

Top: Tom Goss on piano, and Matt Alber on guitar. Bottom: Avi Wisnia plays the kazoo.

I am excited to talk about recent shows featuring Tom Goss, Matt Alber, and Avi Wisnia, three incredible out and proud artists I caught at two different dates. In fact, the shows were in different states, with Tom and Matt playing in Washington, DC, and Avi playing in Wilmington, DE. I will being with the show that was one I knew I couldn't miss, not this time. The last time Matt come through to play a show with Tom, we were hit with snowmageddon, and Delaware was put under a state of emergency, closing all roads, allowing only essential vehicles. So when I heard about this show, and it was happening in August, I knew snow wasn't in the cards. When I saw the forecast of rain, I knew it was not something that could stop me. So my sister Kathy and I got in the car and headed out, not letting a little drizzle slow us down. When we got to the Atlas Theater, it was a beautiful space, a proscenium theater with comfortable seating and a great lobby. There was a grand piano on the stage that was just stunning. And the sound was magnificent. Tom Goss opened up the show, splitting his time between the acoustic guitar and the piano. He most certainly played some favorites, as well as songs off his latest albums. Check out the highlights of his performance.



This was the first time I saw Matt Alber, something that I have been wanting to do for some time. I first discovered Alber's music in 2005, and the purity of his voice, and the quality of his tone has kept my attention all these years. His 2008 debut, Hide Nothing, was incredible, featuring the single "End of the World". Of course, there was also that video for the single, lush and stunning. The end of last year, there was the new album, Constant Crows. There is an intimate feeling on the new release, mining truth with a sweet acoustic soundtrack and a beautiful voice. Alber performed songs off both albums, much to the delight of the audience. Here are the highlights of Matt's set.



The next Saturday night, Kathy and I were back in the car, this time driving to the World Cafe at the Queen in Wilmington. About 10 months before, we caught Avi Wisnia at the same venue, and were thrilled he was back. The place was packed and bustling, with people eating and enjoy the music. Aaron Nathans opened the show, and was soon followed by Avi Wisnia. He played the piano, save when he broke out the kazoo for "Rabbit Hole", which the audience loved! Check out the highlights of Avi's set from August 25, and enjoy.



I will bring you more complete coverage of the shows soon. If you like what you hear, feel free to visit the guys on the web. Click on their name for the official site for Tom Goss, Matt Alber and Avi Wisnia.

Tom Goss & Matt Alber Live at the Atlas

This past Sunday night, I was lucky enough to be holding a ticket for a show featuring Matt Alber and Tom Goss at the Atlas Theater in Washington, DC. The space was amazing, so beautifully designed and great acoustics. And a magnificent grand piano, I must add. And that piano came in very handy for the two talented singer/songwriters. Both played their guitars and tickled the ivories as they played some of their recent favorites for the full house of appreciative fans. For the moment, I am going to post these highlight clips of the show, with more to come soon. So I will start with Matt Alber, singing songs from both his albums, Hide Nothing and Constant Crows.



And is was Tom Goss who had the first set, filled with charm and some of my favorite songs from his recent albums Turn It Around, Lost Songs & Underdogs, and Back To Love. That includes a charming version of "Till The End", when Matt joined Tom on stage to play that baby grand. here are the highlights from Tom's set.



I had a brilliant time at the show, for for Alber and Goss were in top form. For more about Matt Alber, check out his official website. For more about Tom Goss, visit his official website. You can find their music on iTunes, Amazon, and, well, anywhere good music is sold.