Blues Cures Studio Jam Vol. 9 CD
[Sean's Notes] [Dedications] ["Joe Show" Dedication] [Song Credits] [Thanks To] [Pictures]
Featuring
International Blues Challenge Best Instrumentalists Guitar Champions, Sean Carney, Bart Walker, Noah Wotherspoon, and Harmonica Champion Sam Shepherd of InnerVision along with the Matt O’Ree Band, Sadie Johnson, Wendy DeWitt, Kirk Harwood, Genene Blackwell, Brandon Pettiford, Tonky de la Pena, Rob Thaxton, Brian Aylor, Lenny Fatigati and Tom Larson.
Audio Samples
 |
|
||||
 |
|
||||
Sean's Notes
I’m grateful and humbled to be presenting the ninth volume of Blues For A Cure’s Blues Cures Studio Jam series. From the first volume, the International Blues Challenge has been an important component of BFAC and this series and The IBC is well represented by finalists: the Noah Wotherspoon Band, Bart Walker, Central Ohio’s very own InnerVision and myself. The Albert King Award, The IBC’s recognition of the best guitarist in the competition is also on display here, as Bart, Noah and I each have a Custom Shop Gibson ES-335 and Category 5 amplifier, bestowed upon the winner each year. Several years ago, The IBC added The Lee Oskar Best Harmonica Player Award and I’m thrilled that InnerVision’s Sam Shepherd took that honor in 2016!
The Matt O’Ree Band, a BFAC mainstay, is featured prominently on this recording and Matt’s had an exciting agenda in the last year or so, including a tour as guitarist in Bon Jovi and a brand new CD release, featuring special guest Bruce Springsteen. Matt’s band now has the added dimension of two outstanding vocalists, Eryn Shewell and Layonne Holmes, making this outfit one of the strongest blues rock acts you will hear anywhere and you’ll hear it right here.
Another component that’s become a frequent BFAC tradition is inviting one of our European friends to participate and, once again, my good friend Tonky de la Péna joins us to contribute his fiery guitar and vocals that solidify his reputation as Spain’s godfather of the Blues.
In addition to being IBC finalists, InnerVision’s Genene Blackwell and Sam Shepherd also represent the youth component and I’m honored to say that Sam and Genene are also CAMP Blues graduates!
Also representing the next generation is the dynamic Sadie Johnson, who is currently living and attending college in Marietta, Ohio. Although, she’s young, Sadie has already toured in Europe as part of Ruf Records’ Blues Caravan and she’s got “it” on guitar and vocals and we’re lucky to have her here!
I’ve known The Queen of Boogie Woogie, Wendy DeWitt, for nearly 20 years now and I’m amazed by what a powerhouse front woman Wendy is and at the same time, she plays the role of backup musician in a first rate manner on either piano or B3. Wendy’s husband and drummer, Kirk Harwood also joins us on a track. Kirk played with Steve Miller’s harp man, Norton Buffalo for many years. We lost Norton Buffalo to lung cancer in 2009.
There are three tributes here to artists we lost in 2016: Prince, Leonard Cohen and Ohio’s very own Lonnie Mack. While I’m on the subject of tributes, I’m reminded each year as we ask our artists to include personal dedications and as I read those and my eyes fill with tears, I think of the heartache and hope that brings us together to present this music from our hearts.
My heartfelt thanks to Mark Puskarich and Steve Mack for making Blues For A Cure a reality and to ace engineer Cody Romshak at Tony’s Treasures Recording Studio in Cadiz, Ohio. My favorite place to record!
Sean Carney
[Top]
Dedications
"I dedicate this performance to founder of Blue Star Connection, John Catt, as he continues his battle with cancer and to all of the Blue Star's kids who have fought the fight. To my friends who were gone too soon: Hallie and Taylor." - Sadie Johnson
"I would like to dedicate my work on this CD to two of my favorites on this earth, Uncle Jackie and Aunt Donna. I love you both very much!!" - Bart Walker
"I dedicate my participation in the making of this CD to my great grandmother, Sula Harper who died of ovarian cancer. She was a very special lady who loved her family and the Lord Jesus Christ. She always called me her "be'be'". I wish she could have seen me grow up." - Genene Blackwell
"My performance on this CD is dedicated to my grandfather and namesake, Donald Shepherd. He died from colon cancer when I was almost 6 months old so this cancer robbed me from knowing my Grandpa. I hope that the money raised by this project will help stop cancer from tearing grandkids and grandparents away from each other. My prayers go out to all the brokenhearted families that have been impacted by this horrible disease." - Sam Shepherd
"I would like to dedicate my performance to my grandfather, William Shewell, whom I never got to meet. Before I was born, he passed away from Multiple Myeloma." - Eryn Shewell
"Happy to be a part of the Blues For A Cure mission in honor of my Mom, Delores Holmes - an amazing heartfelt singer who demonstrated what true bravery and faith looks like in the face of her own cancer battle. Music heals!" - Layonne Holmes
"My performance is in memory of my Uncle John Waddell, who lost his battle with Lung Cancer in January 2016. He was one of the biggest supporters of my drumming, and one of my biggest fans! He will always be with me. And to my Grandpa, who has been diagnosed this past year also. He built me my first kit - and always cheered me on! Love them both so much." - Brandon Pettiford
"My performance on this record is dedicated to the memory of my brother-in-law, Steve Ottobre, who we lost in 2005. You’ll always be my reminder that I don’t know as much as I think I know." - Lenny Fatigati
"For strength, for love, for sticking together with compassion and support through all. Being part of this project is an affirmation of the love we share for our neighbors, friends, and family and the acknowledgement that we are all one. This is for you especially, Dad. To Mark and Sean go special love for making this project, and for making a difference." - Wendy DeWitt
“I would like to dedicate my portion of this cd to all the people who support friends and loved ones that are victims of this terrible disease.” – Kirk Harwood
"I dedicate my performance to Michael G. Burns. Through the last days of his terrible suffering and battle with cancer, he showed more courage than I’ve ever seen in anyone. With the kindest soul, his last words to me were, "make sure you keep the band going.” He passed away the very next day. So Mike, keep that box checked about the band. For we will meet again someday, have a big hug, and a good laugh like old times. God bless you…" - Forever your friend, Matt O’Ree
"My performance is dedicated to the physical & spiritual healing of The Bennert Family, The Prusecki Family, and the Arbeeny Family." - Scott Bennert
"I'd like to dedicate my performance to all of my loved ones who were taken by cancer through the years. They were all very special people." - John Hummel
"I would like to make my dedication to my Local Union 32 brothers and sisters who fearlessly go into our trade every day knowing the fate that likely awaits many of us and to those of them who have born the weight of, fought and often succumbed to this relentless disease. I also wish to thank the true pioneers who abandon conventional wisdom and the temptations of greed at the risk of their reputations in their pure quest to not only find the cure but to identify the means of prevention....for the best cures are the ones we never need." - Eric Safka
"I dedicate my performance to my hero, my mentor and my mom, thankfully this is all the same person. My mother, Dorothea Larson, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1989. I had just started college and I rushed home to be with her. She had a mastectomy and underwent radiation and chemo. She had been a nurse all of her life and a nightingale award recipient. She raised 4 children as a widow and worked tirelessly. She beat the first bout of cancer. Several years later it came back and she fought it just as hard. After another mastectomy and more chemo and radiation she beat it again. Many years later, it came back a third time in the same area. This time it metastasized into the bone, lungs and just about everywhere else it could take hold. She continued to take care of her husband, and entire mountain town as the only nurse in the area, and volunteered at the church and whoever needed her. Few knew she was battling cancer or that she had been battling it twice before. She approached every person like they were the most wonderful gift on earth, and I only wish I will be blessed with a fraction of her love, compassion and strength. I hope she is smiling listening to all the great music for such an amazing cause." - Tom Larson
"I dedicate my performance to my incredibly supportive and loving grandmother, Joan Rogers. She was one of the strongest people I have ever known, staying positive and determined through everything life threw her way." - Rob Thaxton
"I want to make a dedication to my friend Becky Hussong. She has been going through this difficult battle with grace and dignity. She continues to exude nothing but love and light." - Noah Wotherspoon
"Dedicated to my Aunt Cindy and all who have suffered a loss from cancer." - Brian Aylor
"Participating in the festival and recording session for Blues for a Cure is an enormously moving experience both musically and personally. For the generosity and the great human side of the musicians and people around and this great cause." - Tonky de la Péna
[Top]
Song Credits
1. Giving It Up For Your Love
Sean Carney - Vocal & Guitar
Eryn Shewell & Layonne Holmes - Backing Vocal
Matt O’Ree - Guitar
Eric Safka - Hammond Organ
Scott Bennert - Bass
John Hummel - Drums
Words & Music By Jerry Lynn Williams / EMI Blackwood Music Inc. & Universal Sounds Of Polygram International Inc. / BMI
2. It Takes Time
Noah Wotherspoon - Vocal & Guitar
Matt O'Ree - Guitar
Wendy DeWitt - Hammond Organ
Rob Thaxton - Bass
Brian Aylor - Drums
Words & Music By Otis Rush / ARC Music / BMI
3. Stop
Bart Walker - Vocal & Guitar
Noah Wotherspoon - Guitar
Wendy DeWitt - Hammond Organ
Rob Thaxton - Bass
Tom Larson - Drums
Words & Music By Lonnie Mack / Mack’s Flying V Music / BMI
4. Bring It On Home To Me
Matt O’Ree - Vocal & Guitar
Eryn Shewell - Vocal
Bart Walker - Guitar
Sean Carney - Guitar
Wendy DeWitt - Hammond Organ
Rob Thaxton - Bass
Tom Larson - Drums
Words & Music By Sam Cooke / ABKCO Music / BMI
5. Gimme A Kiss
Sadie Johnson - Vocal & Guitar
Sean Carney - Guitar
Sam Shepherd - Harmonica
Genene Blackwell - Piano
Wendy DeWitt - Hammond Organ
Lenny Fatigati - Bass
Brandon Pettiford - Drums
Words & Music By Sadie Johnson / Bad Love Music / BMI
6. Presence Of The Lord
Layonne Holmes - Vocal
Eryn Shewell - Backing Vocal
Matt O’Ree - Guitar
Sean Carney - Guitar
Eric Safka - Hammond Organ
Scott Bennert - Bass
John Hummel - Drums
Words & Music By Eric Patrick Clapton / Unichappell Music Inc. / BMI
7. Hound Dog
Sam Shepherd - Vocal
Genene Blackwell - Piano
Noah Wotherspoon - Guitar
Lenny Fatigati - Bass
Brandon Pettiford - Drums
Words & Music By InnerVision /InnerVision Music LLC / Independent
8. Maybe I’m A Leo
Matt O’Ree - Vocal & Guitar
Eryn Shewell & Layonne Holmes - Backing Vocal
Eric Safka - Hammond Organ
Scott Bennert - Bass
John Hummel - Drums
Words & Music By Richard Blackmore, Ian Gillian, Roger Glover, Jon Lord & Ian Anderson Paice / Glenwood Music Corp. / ASCAP
9. Oh Pretty Woman
Sean Carney - Vocal & Guitar
Matt O’Ree - Guitar
Noah Wotherspoon - Guitar
Bart Walker - Guitar
Wendy DeWitt - Organ
Rob Thaxton - Bass
Tom Larson - Drums
Words & Music By A.C. Williams / Irving Music Inc. / BMI
10. Never Be Too Much
Wendy DeWitt - Vocal & Piano
Noah Wotherspoon - Guitar
Rob Thaxton - Bass
Kirk Harwood - Drums
Words & Music By Wendy DeWitt / Sausaboogie / ASCAP
11. Trying To Run My Life
Tonky de la Péna - Vocal & Guitar
Matt O’Ree - Guitar
Sean Carney - Guitar
Eric Safka - Hammond Organ
Scott Bennert - Bass
John Hummel - Drums
Words & Music By Tonky de la Péna
12. Purple Rain
Sadie Johnson - Vocal
Eryn Shewell & Layonne Holmes - Backing Vocal
Bart Walker - Guitar & Backing Vocal
Matt O’Ree - Guitar
Wendy DeWitt - Organ
Lenny Fatigati - Bass
Brian Aylor - Drums
Words & Music By Prince, Michel Jean Pierre Colombier & Prince Nelson Rogers / Controversy Music & Warner Olive Music / ASCAP
13. Christo Redemptor
Sam Shepherd - Harmonica
Genene Blackwell - Piano
Bart Walker - Guitar
Lenny Fatigati - Bass
Brandon Pettiford - Drums
Music By Rob Henke & Rolf Sturm / M Cons East Music / BMI
14. Hallelujah
Eryn Shewell - Vocal
Layonne Holmes - Backing Vocal
Matt O’Ree - Guitar
Eric Safka - Hammond Organ
Scott Bennert - Bass
John Hummel - Drums
Words & Music By Leonard Cohen / Sony/ATV Songs LLC / BMI
***The Matt O’Ree Band Appears Courtesy of Therewolf Records
Produced by Mark Puskarich and Sean Carney for Sean Carney’s Blues For A Cure © 2017
Recorded at Tony’s Treasures Studio, Cadiz, Ohio. Recording Engineers Cody Romshak and Mark Puskarich. Produced, edited and mixed by Mark Puskarich and Cody Romshak, Tony's Treasures Productions, Cadiz, OH, and Columbus, OH
www.tonystreasuresproductions.com
Mastered by Mark Puskarich.
"The most difficult dedication I've ever made and one I was hoping I would never have to. I donate my time and efforts on this project in memory of my dear friend, fellow musician and my inspiration for Blues For A Cure and A Christmas To Cure Cancer, Lorne VanFossen." – Mark Puskarich
[Top]
Special Dedication – Joe Pasternak “Joe Show”
 |
 |
 |
||
 |
 |
 |
"I’d like to dedicate my work on this CD to the memory of my friend, beloved Central Ohio WLVQ FM 96 on-air-personality, and member of the Blues For A Cure family, ‘Joe Show’ Joseph Pasternak. Joe always surprised me by saying, ‘yes,’ especially when it came to charity, whether it was arranging an on air performance and interview on QFM96 to promote a Blues For A Cure event or personally canceling a paying gig to volunteer as our event emcee, when we called, Joe was there. Joe always brought an amazing upbeat attitude and an infectious positive energy to the room or the airwaves and for those of us lucky enough to know him personally, he’d usually cook up something delicious in his kitchen to bring along and share as well. Joe Show touched a lot of lives in Central Ohio and beyond and he supported this cause wholeheartedly and his friendship and passion will be deeply missed. I'd also like to acknowledge two dear friends of mine, Jeff Blalock and Toni Windsong, who are both currently fighting the battle. God Bless you and I love you. This music is for you." - Sean Carney
Like Sean, I too wish to dedicate all my work and efforts on this CD to the memory of WLVQ FM96’s ‘Joe Show’ Joseph M. Pasternak. I couldn’t say it any better than Sean did, so I’ll just add that Joe Show’s passing was a big loss to the central Ohio community, just as when we lost Heather Pick and Stefanie Spielman. They all, unselfishly, supported and lifted up so many great causes and central Ohio will never be the same without them.
[Top]
Thanks To
A very special thanks to all the artists on this recording who donated their time and efforts. We had two amazing sessions. One in April ‘16 after the BFAC Columbus event and one in June ‘16 after the BFAC Harrison County concert. This group of amazing artists is incredibly talented and very fun and beautiful people. To Cody Romshak, my best friend and recording studio engineer, who has amazing passion and patience in the recording sessions. To Steve Mack, an integral organizer of Blues For A Cure, supporter of A Christmas To Cure Cancer, great photographer and good friend.
To all who helped organize and pull off Blues For A Cure events in 2016: my wife, Irina Puskarich, Cindy Blake, Joe Blake, Tiffany Harrison, Teri Pealer, Dave Kreider, Scott Smalley, Laura Strickland, Margarita Crow, Jimmy Woodland, Paul Painter and all the wonderful folks at Woodlands Productions. To my mom, Lois Puskarich, who blankets Harrison County to make sure posters and flyers are distributed everywhere. To my sister, Lisa, for proofing everything on a minute’s notice and catching all the small things. Photographers Dusty Scott, Kelly Thornton, Judy Puskarich and Mark Berger. To my cousins, Lori and Rich Milleson, for all their support of ACTCC and BFAC Harrison County.
To all the sponsors, especially Hess Energy, Jason Ogden of Harrison Community Hospital and Scott Porter of Sally Buffalo Park for support of BFAC Harrison County. Tammy Mattern and the Lincoln Inn for providing accommodations for the artists each year. Don Sloan and WTOV9 Steubenville for all the PSA support. Cindy Taylor from 106.3 The River for radio advertising and PSAs. Matt Cooperrider and Katelyn Walters for CD art layout, Mark Frizzell and Dave Marsh, of West-Camp Press, for making my small projects of big importance to your facility. To the wonderful folks at 10TV and the Columbus Dispatch: Angela An, Tammy Dosch, Karina Nova, Jeff Hogan and Mike Davis among others. We all work so very hard to help make an impact on cancer research and Keeping The Blues Alive. – Mark Puskarich
Tony’s Treasures Productions is proud to sponsor this recording project to help support fundraising for cancer related causes as well as the Blues Foundation. It’s always a pleasure and thrill to work with such great artists and witness their enthusiasm for their craft. Thank you for supporting great blues music and two great causes. – Mark Puskarich
Produced by Mark Puskarich and Sean Carney for Sean Carney’s Blues For A Cure © 2017.
Recorded at Tony’s Treasures Studio, Cadiz, Ohio. Recording Engineers Cody Romshak and Mark Puskarich. Edited and mixed by Mark Puskarich and Cody Romshak, Tony’s Treasures Productions, Cadiz, OH, and Columbus, OH.
www.tonystreasuresproductions.com
Mastered by Mark Puskarich.
Photos by Steve Mack (www.stevemackphotos.com), Dusty Scott (www.dustyblues.com), Kelly Thornton, Judy Puskarich and Mark Puskarich. CD Cover photo by Dusty Scott.
CD insert graphic design and CD insert by Katelyn Walters, Matt Cooperrider of West-Camp Press www.westcamp.com and Jen Ocken of Ocken Photography www.ockenphotography.com.
For additional pictures and videos, and the latest on fundraising and concert dates, please visit our websites at www.bluesforacure.org and www.achristmastocurecancer.org. Blues For A Cure, (DBA) under A Christmas To Cure Cancer, Inc. is an IRS registered 501(c)(3) non–profit corporation.
[Top]
Pictures
[Top]