::GET FAMILIAR:: ALLEN STONE

::GET FAMILIAR:: ALLEN STONE
by Daniel Harris

Though his career is just getting started, Allen Stone has shown that he is relentless in his quest to create serious soul music. In this age of "one hit wonders," and corporate driven artists, Allen Stone's commitment to music is extremely refreshing.

A native of Washington state (a region most known for its grunge and punk rock scene), Stone had a very traditional soul musician's start: in church. Stone began singing in his father's church as a young boy. By the time he was 14, Stone was leading worship and playing guitar.

Allen Stone cites some of the greatest soul singers as his influences, including Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Donny Hathaway and Aretha Franklin. Like his influences, Stone delivers a wide spectrum of thought and feelings from deep levels of consciousness to the ultimate joys and highs of love.

That is what makes Allen Stone a wonderful artist to be familiar with. An amazing songwriter and musician, Stone's music is full. While many artists today opt out of creating music that reaches listeners on a more personal level, Stone's approach to writing and performing is much different that any of today's pop artists.

To get even more familiar with Allen Stone, follow him on Twitter and Instagram. Baltimore! You have an opportunity to see this incredible artist on Nov. 11 at Baltimore Soundstage! You seriously don't want to miss it. Be sure to check Allen Stone's tour dates to see when he will be in YOUR area!

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::GET FAMILIAR:: LIRA

::GET FAMILIAR:: LIRA
by Daniel Harris

Lira, a multifaceted talent from South Africa has certainly made her mark within her country and across Europe. Often compared to Sade, Lira's awarding winning style has made her a household name overseas. In 2012, Essence Magazine named her one of five unique artists to "change music." With international success under her belt, Lira now has her eyes set on being a fixture in America's music scene. By all accounts, she has what it takes to find much success here in the states.

A talented singer, songwriter, model and actress, Lira began her musical journey at the age of 16. After winning a competition for young singer and songwriters, she began performing both covers and original music.  Over the years, Lira has developed a unique ability to flow between genres like Bossa, R&B and Jazz.

Her latest release Rise Again is described as being a perfect introduction for US fans. Lira's smooth, unique sound, her wide variety of lyrical content and touches of her South African heritage help to tell a complete story of who she is and the mark she plans to make stateside. Rise Again is inspirational, romantic, upbeat and though provoking, all at the same time. It really showcases Lira's complete spectrum as an artist.

If you are in the Baltimore area, you will have an amazing opportunity to experience Lira's artistry first hand. Lira will be performing at the Baltimore Soundstage on June 24th. Rise Again is available now on iTunes and Amazon.

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::RECAP:: LIANNE LA HAVAS & ALICE SMITH LIVE

::RECAP:: LIANNE LA HAVAS & ALICE SMITH LIVE

by Daniel Harris end note by Gypsy
Photos by: Nocturnal Charm

While Baltimore may not be thought of a city for great acts to perform, 24-7 Entertainment and Baltimore Soundstage is doing what it can to quickly change that perception.

This past Friday, the Marketplace venue was blessed host to two powerful, sultry, dazzling artists in Alice Smith and Lianne La Havas. Aside from two amazing performances, what was most intriguing about the night was the composition of the crowd.

The concert was open to all ages and that's exactly what the crowd consisted of. Those under 21 were represented very well. In fact, it seemed as if they made up the majority of the crowd. It was quite inspiring. There are a lot of notions about those under 21 and their music selections these days. Many major labels seem to think that if it doesn't have a catchy hook or repetitive beat, this group will not support. Observing the crowd last Friday, it may be in the best interest of some labels to reevaluate their notion.

The show starts and the place erupted with cheer for Alice Smith as she took the stage. Judging from the expression on her face, it really took her by surprise. No full band, no instrumental tracks, no DJ; Alice took the stage with an acoustic guitar player and her booming voice.

Her setup proved to be the perfect means to get lost in her music. Alice is a pure singer and her lyrical content was not overshadowed by her singing ability. As she was singing, it was apparent that she possess the ability to draw listeners in to the raw emotion of her music.

Once her set was finished, Alice Smith left the stage to the same eruption of cheers she received at the start of her performance. The crowd is given a few minutes to wrap their heads around the experience while the stage is set up for Lianne La Havas.

Lianne delivers her music with intense passion, connecting with her audience on a very real level. Setting up to perform "Forget", she let the crowd know that their singing of the hook needed to be as angry as possible to really express the emotion of the song. In fact, throughout the night, Lianne seemed unashamed to share many of her life experiences through her music.

Her vocal abilities are equally matched by her incredible talents as a musician. It is a well known fact that she has the talent to play guitar. Her album "Is Your Love Big Enough?" did a great job to highlight her talent with songs like "They Could Be Wrong" and "Age". However, during her live performance, she showed the audience that her skill set goes way beyond just being able to merely play guitar. Lianne La Havas is a rocker in every sense of the word!

Thanks to the efforts of groups like 24-7 Entertainment and Baltimore Soundstage, the Charm City is quickly on the rise to host more amazing shows like this one. Thank you to the Baltimore Soundstage for the access.

To view more pictures for the show please click HERE

Gypsy Note:

Ive seen many shows and heard many artists perform but this was one of the best musical experiences I have ever participated in. I say participate because there is a giving and a taking done by both the artists and the audience during a live show such as this where the artists are so vulnerable and raw. After being a fan for so long of Alice Smith it was fulfilling to be able to FINALLY see her live and to experience what I hear in my car or all over my house was incredible. To add to the night the beautiful voice of one of my new favorites, Lianne La Havas made for an unforgettable evening. Not to mention they both were sweet as pie and incredibly gracious. Imagine if these ladies were played on the radio here in Baltimore, imagine how the things were hear might change the things we do...how substantive music on the airwaves might change the culture of a city...

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::TIX FIX:: LIANNE LA HAVAS & ALICE SMITH

::TIX FIX:: LIANNE LA HAVAS & ALICE SMITH

LIANNE LA HAVAS & ALICE SMITH

are coming to Baltimore at the Baltimore Sound Stage on Friday, July 26th!!

Need tix? Enter our give a way to win ONE (1) pair of tickets OR if you want to get tix before they SELL OUT then head over to http://www.baltimoresoundstage.com.

• COMPLETE the form below.


• Entries will only be accepted between the hours of 10AM on Monday 7/22 until 12 noon on Thursday 7/25.


• One entry per person.


• If you have won a contest/giveaway from Gypsy Soul in the past 30 days, you are ineligible to enter.


• All entries that do not adhere to the above stated guidelines will be disqualified.
  Entrants must be in the Baltimore/Washington, DC area and available to attend a show at The Baltimore Sound Stage, 124 Market Place Baltimore MD 21202 on Friday, July 26 at 7PM.


• One winner will be chosen at random from all eligible entrants on Friday 7/26  to receive a pair of complimentary tickets to the show. The winner will be notified by email and/or mobile phone by Friday 7/26  at or around 11AM and provided with further details.


• The winner's name will be announced on Gypsy Soul's Facebook and Twitter pages.

Thanks for SOULCIALIZING!!

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::RECAP:: PJ Morton LIVE in Baltimore

::RECAP::  PJ Morton LIVE in Baltimore
by Daniel Harris 
Photos by Tameka Harris

Great music doesn't start with musicianship, vocal abilities and stage presence. Great music starts when an artist produces music that is true to who they are as people, not cogs in the music business factory. This past Saturday, PJ Morton once again showed Baltimore why he truly makes great music.

The Baltimore Soundstage played host to an incredible night of music and good vibes as the New Orleans born soul singer electrified the crowd with his candid lyrics, crisp musical style and engaging showmanship.

What was most interesting about this mini tour PJ Morton is on, with New York and Washington, DC as the other cities he blessed this weekend, is the addition of an up and coming talent to his opening act for each of the weekend's concerts.

Many may recognize J. Drew as the brother of gospel artist Kierra Sheard and the production genius behind much of her work. Deciding to test the waters as a frontman, J. Drew took the stage for only the second time in his very short solo career (with his first show being the previous night in New York.)

J. Drew has the musicianship (his band blazed!), he has the vocal abilities (he's from the Clark Dynasty, you'd be a fool to expect anything less!) and some stage presence (it was his second show and the newbie jitters showed through at times.); However, he lacked depth in his songwriting. This should be prefaced by saying there is no expectation for J. Drew to do Gospel. As a musician and artist, he should find his path in the music business.

J. Drew's set was filled with a lot of mediocre, "flavor of the month" lyrical content and colloquialisms, with constant requests to "turn up." Personal sidebar: If that term were to die right now, it wouldn't be the worst thing that ever happened.

Perhaps a bright spot for the young artist, he has potential. With more development and finding his lane in the business, J. Drew could be your new favorite artist.

As the moment approached for PJ Morton to take the stage, it was very hard to tell what exactly he would give the audience. A true music industry non-conformist, PJ definitely values artistry over industry, making the anticipation of his performance all the more exciting. And don't for one second think that his recent signing to Young Money has changed him or his music!

Watching his same showmanship mastery, listening to him perform songs from his new album New Orleans and still being able to hear the PJ fans know and love, watching the audience being moved by every chord played and note sang, still being able to feel and connect with each and every song; You leave with the sense that PJ Morton will "always be."

To see more photos from the show click HERE and become a fan of Gypsy Soul on Facebook!

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::RECAP:: Maysa Leak LIVE

::RECAP:: Maysa Leak LIVE
by Daniel Harris

Selling out any venue is an amazing feat. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication put into an artist's craft. For Maysa Leak, selling out a venue in her hometown was a major accomplishment.

Located in Baltimore's Marketplace, Baltimore Soundstage was the perfect place to celebrate the release of Maysa's latest release Blue Velvet Soul, her 10th solo album. One of the city's premier performing venues, this space provides national recording artists with an intimate setting to showcase their talents.

What is considered a first for the area, Baltimore Soundstage often  presents artists in a fully seated setting. Concert goers can enjoy Baltimore Soundstage's delicious menu while listening to their favorite artist perform.

Maysa took the stage with an overwhelming show of love from her hometown crowd. Her voice quality and control made for a very enjoyable evening of music. Watching her as she commanded the stage and everyone's attention was an amazing experience.

The Baltimore Soundstage was filled to near capacity with loyal supporters of this wonderful talent. However, Maysa wondered if she could even fill this or any venue in her hometown. As she began to cruise through her set, she told the crowd that many critics have said it would be impossible for her to gain the support of her hometown. This international superstar had a real fear that people would not show up.

Throughout her illustrious career, there have been some who've said that it would be impossible for her to appeal to her hometown crowd. "They told me I could sell out DC and the surrounding areas but never my hometown" says Maysa. Judging from the massive line to get inside the venue and the deafening roar as Maysa took the stage, it is safe to say that "they" were completely wrong!

As the concert concluded and the crowd rushed to purchase her new album.

As music lovers, we cannot stress the importance of supporting the artists in your own backyard. Hometown support is a great test for the support that these talented artists will receive abroad. Hometown support is a great boost to the morale of artists at all levels in the business.

Tell us what you think? Are you surprised that Maysa had this concern? Do you feel that your local music scene does enough to support local artists? Tell us your thoughts in the comment box below. Make sure to follow Maysa at @MAYSALEAK‎

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::RECAP:: Ghostface Killah- 12 Reasons To Die

::RECAP:: Ghostface Killah- 12 Reasons To Die
Post and photos by Nocturnal Charm

Theatrics and Hip Hop performances are usually NOT two concepts you see paired together.  The majority of hip hop shows tend to be one or two main performers posing and posturing while throngs of hanger ons, hypemen and groupies chill onstage. Thats why the 12 Reasons To Die show featuring Adrian Younge and Wu-tangs most relevant touch bearer, GhostFace Killah, came as such an entertaining and refreshing experience for this 30 something year old hip hop fan.
 

The concept was complex and amazing.  The project is the brainchild of Younge, who is most prominently known for scoring the Blaxploitation Reboot, Black Dynamite from a few years ago that was a surprise hit in both theaters and cult circles.  He's taken samples, references and the overall feel from 70's Italian gangster and horror flicks, thrown the one and only RZA in on production, and has MY fave Wu Tang member, Dennis Coles spitting tales of streetlife, betrayal and revenge like only he knows how.  To tie all of that together, he's created an elaborate stage show that tells the story of the making of the Ghostface Killah with the use of illuminati-style robed women, a KILLER band featuring a charismatic Merlow swilling band leader and a male/female lead vocal duo who steamed up the stage with more lust filled and sultry vocals than the Baltimore Soundstage has seen in sometime.
 

Despite the thematic feel of show, Younge made sure that the audience got a HEALTHY dose of that old Wutang magic as he allowed time for GFK to run thru a slew of his hits and jostle with the crowd.  Younges' tight ass band pulled off the RZAs' classic creations with effortless efficiency.  Tracks like "Apollo Kids", "Run" and  "Nutmeg" never sounded so amazing.  Hell, there was even an appearance by one of the more popular Wutang offshoot members, Killah Priest.  Needless to say, this writer was impressed not only with what he heard or saw, but what he experienced.
  

To get the album (we suggest purchasing the limited edition vinyl!) click HERE  and to see more pics click HERE.

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::RECAP:: Pusha T Live

::RECAP:: Pusha T Live
Post and photos by Leo Wilson

Hands down, Pusha T is a beast of a performer. I guess most fan already knew this because when I arrived at the concert I found a double wide line forming towards the end of the block. Finally when I entered Baltimore Soundstage I observed a pack crowd, from front to back. Trying to make my way through the crowd was way more difficult than I imagined it to be. Eventually I was able to find a prime location, within the heart of the crowd, to capture some cool photos.

Troy Ave did a great opening set and at the end introduced the man of the hour, Pusha T. Upon his feet touching the stage, the crowd raised their hands in the air simultaneously to welcome the awaited MC. Pusha definitely did not disappoint them, reacquainting them with such bangers as “Grindin”  and “Exodus 23:1”. For every song performed, Pusha had an arsenal of facial expressions and mannerisms to aid you in feeling the tone behind each word spoken. 

If you've never seen a Pusha T show make sure to catch him the next time youre in town. 

To view more pics from the show click HERE

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::TIX FIX:: Big Boi

::TIX FIX:: Big Boi

BIG BOI

is coming to Baltimore at the Baltimore Sound Stage with Killer Mike on Sunday, April 21st!!

Need tix? E nter our give a way to win ONE (1) pair of tickets OR if you want to get tix before they SELL OUT then head over to http://www.baltimoresoundstage.com.

• COMPLETE the form below.


• Entries will only be accepted between the hours of 10AM on Friday 4/12 until 12 noon on Friday 4/19.


• One entry per person.


• If you have won a contest/giveaway from Gypsy Soul in the past 30 days, you are ineligible to enter.


• All entries that do not adhere to the above stated guidelines will be disqualified.
  Entrants must be in the Baltimore/Washington, DC area and available to attend a show at The Baltimore Sound Stage, 124 Market Place Baltimore MD 21202 on Sunday4/21 at 7PM.


• One winner will be chosen at random from all eligible entrants on Friday 4/19 to receive a pair of complimentary tickets to the show. The winner will be notified by email and/or mobile phone by Friday 4/19 at or around 3PM and provided with further details.


• The winner's name will be announced on Gypsy Soul's Facebook and Twitter pages.

Thanks for SOULCIALIZING!!

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::TIX FIX:: Fabolous & Pusha T

::TIX FIX:: Fabolous & Pusha T

Fabolous & Pusha T

  are coming to Baltimore at the Baltimore Sound Stage on Sunday, April 28th!!

Need tix? E
nter our give a way to win ONE (1) pair of tickets OR if you want to get tix before they SELL OUT then head over to http://www.baltimoresoundstage.com.

• COMPLETE the form below.


• Entries will only be accepted between the hours of 11AM on Wednesday 4/10 until 12 noon on Thursday 4/25.


• One entry per person.


• If you have won a contest/giveaway from Gypsy Soul in the past 30 days, you are ineligible to enter.


• All entries that do not adhere to the above stated guidelines will be disqualified.
  Entrants must be in the Baltimore/Washington, DC area and available to attend a show at The Baltimore Sound Stage, 124 Market Place Baltimore MD 21202 on Sunday 2/15 at 7PM.


• One winner will be chosen at random from all eligible entrants on Thursday 4/28 to receive a pair of complimentary tickets to the show. The winner will be notified by email and/or mobile phone by Friday 4/26 at or around 3PM and provided with further details.


• The winner's name will be announced on Gypsy Soul's Facebook and Twitter pages.

 Thanks for SOULCIALIZING!!

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::RECAP:: Bilal Is Back

::RECAP:: Bilal Is Back
Post by Gypsy
Photos by Nocturnal Charm, Edith Williams and Leo Wilson 

Photo: Nocturnal Charm

On the verge of releasing his fourth album A Love Surreal, Bilal Oliver, performed at the Baltimore Soundstage to give fans a preview of what to expect on February 26th when the album arrives. 

Over the years and this go round in particular, Gypsy Soul has been provided access to Bilal and through SoulcialGrindPR has worked with him to secure media and always the result is the same...A GREAT TIME!  Bilal is funny and laid back, deep and thoughtful, humble and real -sometimes these qualities can be hard for fans to see from the stage. When on that platform in the blazing lights surrounded by instruments hes energetic and emotional as he gives himself to each song, interactive, and brilliant. 

 

What does change is the music. Bilal's genius and conscious undertaking of staying empty of ego and his deliberate will to avoid "falling in love with my own shit" allows him to creatively expand. We, the fans, are witness. From 1st Born Second to now  A Love Surreal the evolution of lyrical depth and increased creativity from piano led tracks to guitar centered pieces are evidence. 

Photo: Leo Wilson

My favorite song he previewed from the new album was "Climbing"! Slow, sultry, with a story line you can imagine as you close your eyes and sip some sweet wine in the evening on the couch. Other songs Im anticipating playing in my car are "Longing and Waiting", "Slipping Away", and "Butterfly" featuring 2013 GRAMMY Award winner Robert Glasper, which of course has a very piano focused underlay, but the depth is considerably more layered. 

 

 Photo: Nocturnal Charm 

If anyone ever doubted Bilal's influence in Baltimore, the packed house, fan fare, and extensive knowledge of his catalog by the audience would clear any questions.
 

Photo: Edith Williams

Bilal is back and better than ever. Make sure to pre-order A Love Surreal on Itunes and follow Bilal at @bilal and www.facebook.com/OfficialBilalPage

Thank you to Bilal and him team for once again allowing SoulcialGrindPR to  handle media for their Baltimore show.

To view more photos from the evening please click HERE.

Photo: Nocturnal Charm

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::TIX FIX:: Win Tickets To See Marsha Ambrosius

::TIX FIX:: Win Tickets To See Marsha Ambrosius

Marsha Ambrosius

is coming to Baltimore at the Baltimore Sound Stage on Sunday, February 17th!!

Thinking of MORE ways to extend Valentines Day...well here it is!

Try your luck and enter our give a way to win ONE (1) pair of tickets OR if you want to get tix before they SELL OUT then head over to http://www.baltimoresoundstage.com.

• COMPLETE the form below.


• Entries will only be accepted between the hours of 9AM on Tuesday 2/5 until 12 noon on Wednesday 2/13.


• One entry per person.


• If you have won a contest/giveaway from Gypsy Soul in the past 30 days, you are ineligible to enter.


• All entries that do not adhere to the above stated guidelines will be disqualified.
  Entrants must be in the Baltimore/Washington, DC area and available to attend a show at The Baltimore Sound Stage, 124 Market Place Baltimore MD 21202 on Sunday, 2/17 at 7PM.


• One winner will be chosen at random from all eligible entrants on Thursday 2/14 to receive a pair of complimentary tickets to the show. The winner will be notified by email and/or mobile phone on Thursday 2/14 at or around 3PM and provided with further details.


• The winner's name will be announced on Gypsy Soul's Facebook and Twitter pages.

 Thanks for SOULCIALIZING!!

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::TIX FIX:: Win Tickets To See Bilal

::TIX FIX:: Win Tickets To See Bilal

BILAL

is coming to Baltimore at the Baltimore Sound Stage on Friday, February 15th!!

Thinking of ways to extend Valentines Day...well here it is!

Try your luck and enter our give a way to win ONE (1) pair of tickets OR if you want to get tix before they SELL OUT then head over to http://www.baltimoresoundstage.com.

• COMPLETE the form below.


• Entries will only be accepted between the hours of 9AM on Tuesday 1/22 until 12 noon on Wednesday 2/13.


• One entry per person.


• If you have won a contest/giveaway from Gypsy Soul in the past 30 days, you are ineligible to enter.


• All entries that do not adhere to the above stated guidelines will be disqualified.
  Entrants must be in the Baltimore/Washington, DC area and available to attend a show at The Baltimore Sound Stage, 124 Market Place Baltimore MD 21202 on Friday 2/15 at 7PM.


• One winner will be chosen at random from all eligible entrants on Thursday 2/14 to receive a pair of complimentary tickets to the show. The winner will be notified by email and/or mobile phone on Thursday 2/14 at or around 3PM and provided with further details.


• The winner's name will be announced on Gypsy Soul's Facebook and Twitter pages.

 Thanks for SOULCIALIZING!!

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::TIX FIX:: Win Tickets To See Lalah Hathaway

::TIX FIX:: Win Tickets To See Lalah Hathaway

 

Lalah Hathaway

is coming to Baltimore at the Baltimore Sound Stage on Saturday, January 19th!!

What a great way to start the new year and we have tickets to give away courtesy of the Baltimore Sound Stage!


Try your luck and enter our give a way to win ONE (1) pair of tickets OR if you want to get tix before they SELL OUT then head over to http://www.baltimoresoundstage.com.

• COMPLETE the form below.


• Entries will only be accepted between the hours of 9AM on Wednesday 1/16 until 12 noon on Friday 1/18.


• One entry per person.


• If you have won a contest/giveaway from Gypsy Soul in the past 30 days, you are ineligible to enter.


• All entries that do not adhere to the above stated guidelines will be disqualified.
  Entrants must be in the Baltimore/Washington, DC area and available to attend a show at The Baltimore Sound Stage, 124 Market Place Baltimore MD 21202 on Saturday, 1/19 at 7PM.


• One winner will be chosen at random from all eligible entrants on Friday, 1/18 to receive a pair of complimentary tickets to the show. The winner will be notified by email and/or mobile phone on Friday, 1/18 at or around 3PM and provided with further details.


• The winner's name will be announced on Gypsy Soul's Facebook and Twitter pages.

 Thanks for SOULCIALIZING!!

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::RECAP:: Allen Stone Live

::RECAP:: Allen Stone Live
Photos by Nocturnal Charm

You, yes you, will hate yourself next year when Allen Stone "blows up" and you missed one of the single most brilliant shows of your life that was ONLY $15! ...but I digress.

After a very long day, I debated about going to the show and then I mentally smacked myself because I had been waiting for this moment to see him live since late spring and this was finally my chance. No amount of fatigue was going to stop me.

I arrived at Baltimore Sound Stage at the end of the second opener, happily surprised at the amount of people that occupied the floor and the perimeter. The crowd was extremely diverse: black and white, young and young at heart...a great mix of music lovers.

Finally the moment arrived when the band started up with a little bit of James Brown, from which they introduced the man of the hour- ALLEN STONE.

His set was a perfect whirlwind of sound. He performed album staples like "Sleep" and "Celebrate Tonight" that got the crowd rocking. With a dance-off he took the crowd to another level of movement as the audience competed to shake their money makers more intensely than the other.

Amped with adrenaline he decided to slow the mood down by serenading us all with "Killing Time". Stripped of every instrument accept the guitar, "Killing Time" allowed us to appreciate the background vocals of his band as their voices blended effortlessly.

Allen went on to perform favorites "Satisfaction", "Say So" and "Another Break Up Song", but the jewel of the night for me was his heart wrenching rendition of Bob Marley's "Is This Love". No one will ever be able to accuse Allen Stone of not having soul. Each ounce of his being went into performing that piece and the harmony that was constructed from all members of the band to create such a stirring performance. Spontaneously my soul would be gripped and I would shout out "you better sang boy!" or "YES!!!!!" I call it Lounge Congregational Language as opposed to the "Hallelujahs" and "Amens" of the Lords Congregational Language lol. It was a religious experience and at one point I almost went prostrate as a penitence to Allen for all the silly people who had no idea of the musical revival that was taking place in Baltimore's Inner Harbor. Absolutely Incredible!

If you are not familiar with Allen Stone...GET FAMILIAR and get his music from itunes, follow him on twitter @allen_stone and support great music and those who make it!

For more pictures from the Allen Stone show at The Baltimore Sound Stage by Nocturnal Charm click HERE.

Special shout out to Sam, Lauren, Laura, and BJ!

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::TIX FIX:: Win Tickets To See ALLEN STONE

::TIX FIX:: Win Tickets To See ALLEN STONE

ALLEN STONE
is coming to Baltimore at the Sound Stage on September 28th!!

O Goodie and we have tickets to give away courtesy of the Baltimore Sound Stage !


Try your luck and enter our give a way to win ONE (1) pair of tickets OR if you want to get tix before they SELL OUT then head over to http://www.baltimoresoundstage.com.

• COMPLETE the form below.


• Entries will only be accepted between the hours of 9am on Friday 9/21 until 12 noon on Thursday 9/27.


• One entry per person.


• If you have won a contest/giveaway from Gypsy Soul in the past 30 days, you are ineligible to enter.


• All entries that do not adhere to the above stated guidelines will be disqualified.
  Entrants must be in the Baltimore/Washington, DC area and available to attend a show at The Baltimore Sound Stage, 124 Market Place Baltimore MD 21202 on Friday, 9/28 at 7pm.


• One winner will be chosen at random from all eligible entrants on Thursday, 9/27 to receive a pair of complimentary tickets to the show. The winner will be notified by email and/or mobile phone on Thursday, 9/27 at 3PM and provided with further details.


• The winner's name will be announced on Gypsy Soul's Facebook and Twitter pages.

Thanks for SOULCIALIZING!!

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::RECAP:: Meshell Ndegeocello | Live

::RECAP:: Meshell Ndegeocello | Live
Photos and recap by Nocturnal Charm

 

 Acoustic soul lovers filled a sold out Baltimore Soundstage last Thursday night to experience one of R&B’s most consistent, genuine and   under-appreciated masters, Meshell Ndegeocello.  In a week that saw most of the country gripped by a sweltering heatwave, Meshell's presence brought a much needed cool to our beloved Charm City.  It was a vibe felt not only in the air but exemplified by a diverse, couple-filled crowd who came for a sermon on love that only Ndegeochello can deliver.

As the crowd milled about; ordering drinks, greeting friends and settling in reserved seats, they were treated to a lovely selection of both new and old neo-soul selections that served as a warm-up to what was soon to come.  Enter Kelli Sae- Brooklyn based songstress that’s 1 part Maysa, 1 part Chaka and the rest, “That’s so Raven!”

She started her set with an acapella standard, the name of which escapes me at the moment but trust me that didn’t matter.  The real meaning behind the bare vocal display was to show this crowd, who was predominantly new to her that, “I CAN SANG!”  By the time she was done, we were no longer “waiting for Meshell”, we were waiting for more Kelli Sae!  Sae and her skilled band proceeded to play some original compositions from previous and recent albums.  Two standouts that showed off her skill in songwriting and passion were “Anymore” and “6 months”.  “Anymore" (which is actually being released to radio and other media outlets this week) is the aggressive ballad of a jilted lover whom though once consumed by a relationship that once was, is simply fed up with caring and wants to reclaim her freedom and sanity from it all.

 

Sae developed a repore with the embracing crowd, asking, “you guys mind if I take off my shoes off?” while she joked and doted on her special lady (and her soffff-t booty). She also took a moment
to get personal with the audience, sharing the auto-biographical “7 Months”.  This heartfelt, Jeff-Buckley-esque tune pulls at your heartstrings as Sae pours her heart out over this track at the news that her mom had only 7 months to live.  It was a bittersweet ending to a great set that introduced Kelli to Bmore as a force to be reckoned with in “grown folk” R&B.

With the crowd still buzzing off Saes’ electric performance, anticipation for the nights’ headliner reached a fevered pitch.  They would not have to wait long.  Meshell Ndegeocello and her comrads
took their places on stage and immediately got to work, starting with the groove heavy “Trust” that had the venue full of lovers gyrating on both the dancefloor and each other.  Meshell, known for her chill and subdued demeanor, effortlessly glided thru her hits, new and old while perched on a simple stool and donning a pair of NOT so simple Stark red Raybans... too freakin cool.  The crowd was at her control as the two entities engaged in the equivalent of a torrid love affair over the course of an hour.
 

 
She made them move with the classic, “If That’s You’re Boyfriend”, showed her vulnerability with “Fool Of Me”, and mellowed everyone the hell out in a dreamy haze with “Come Smoke My
Herb”. As a concert writer, its NEVER easy when the band freestyles the whole show with NO playlist, but when the music is THIS good, how can you really complain?  I was even introduced to the new album, which I admittedly tho not purposely slept on.  Apparently, I was in the minority as the crowd went almost word for word for the entire show.

Tunes like her cover of Leonard Cohen's "Chelsea Hotel" and "Oysters", made me sign in to Itunes as SOON as I got home to cop Weather and make amends for my negligent insolence.

Overall, it was a great night of R&B that I hope the industry begins to embrace more. A night of coolness that showcased real music.. a break from the latest “hot ‘ish” and hotter weather.

Make sure to follow Meshell @officialmeshell and continue to show those who continue to make good music love. 

Thank you to the Baltimore Soundstage for the access. To see more pictures by Nocturnal Charm from this show click HERE.

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