The Loyal Seas @ The Burren 6.25.2022

Tanya Donelly and Brian Sullivan recently released a wonderful new album under the moniker The Loyal Seas. The duo called upon Matthias Bossi, Russel Chudnofsky, Dean Fisher, Melissa Gibbs and Scott Janovitz to bring the recordings to life for a record release celebration at The Burren. The evening was a showcase for these new tunes as well as solo work from, and collaborations between, the various talented individuals on the stage. It was also a reminder of the how much joy a group of friends making beautiful music together can bring to a room.

Behind the Scenes at Boston Stands with the ACLU @ Paradise Rock Club 3.18.2017

Perhaps you saw my photos from the Boston Stands with the ACLU benefit show at The Paradise and thought to yourself “That’s unusual. Johnny is usually right up front when he takes pictures, but most of these photos are from the back. Was it crazy crowded and he couldn’t get up front? Was he trying out some new perspectives? Was there something else going on that prevented him from standing in one spot for 6 hours?” Well, I have answers to these imaginary questions you may or may not have asked yourself! Yes, it was sold out! Yes, but only because it was so crazy packed I couldn’t get up front! And yes, because I was also busy taking all of these photos!

Some really wonderful people were involved with putting this show together. The night raised $24,800 for the ACLU. The musical lineup was unbelievable. Seriously. Did that really happen? Jokes were told. Songs were sung. My head is still spinning. I’m going to take a nap. Right after I leave these here…

Check out performance photos from all of the acts on this amazing night:

Ken Reid
Bill Janovitz
The Gravel Pit
The Sheila Divine
Evan Dando
Belly
Juliana Hatfield
Nada Surf

Buffalo Tom @ Midway Cafe 11.9.2012

When you think of Boston bands that consistently write great songs, Buffalo Tom should be in your head. It’s no wonder Chris Toppin had a hard time paring down her wishlist for the band’s set at her birthday bash. Buffalo Tom played through a bunch of those request in front of an appreciative full house at the Midway. They even had a little help from their friends.

Tanya Donelly @ Midway Cafe 11.9.2012

Tanya Donelly backed by Buffalo Tom at the Midway? I never thought I’d see this. I’m not going to think about this one too much. It’s a special occasion. Special things happen. I’m just going to enjoy hearing some of my favorite Tanya-penned tunes* (along with a cool cover of “Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around”) and count my blessings. It is almost Thanksgiving, after all.

* “Slow Dog” anyone? So good.