I have not yet attended one of the Extended Play Sessions shows at the Alternate Root Studio.

I am looking forward to my first session on Wednesday, May 14, with Janiva Magness and Xenia Dunford.

I have never heard either performer, so I’m quite excited to attend.  “The Blues Foundation named Janiva Magness the B.B. King Entertainer of the Year in 2009, becoming only the second woman, after KoKo Taylor to be so honored. In the same year, she was named the Contemporary Blues Female Artist of the Year, which she had already won in 2006 and 2007, and was nominated for again in 2012. Since 2006, she has had 22 similar nominations. Xenia Dunford is a musical nomad and unabashedly honest lyricist; her songs are made of the stuff of life. Inspired and plagued by the human condition, she weaves together melodies that produce story songs reminiscent of Laura Nyro and Kris Kristofferson. Each one harvested from the vices and virtues we all fear and love, Xenia sings out each word as if it were the last drop of stinging sweet whiskey to ever touch her lips.”

The Extended Play Sessions are held in a unique space with very limited seating for just 44 people; no seat is more than 25 feet from the stage. The doors will open at 6:00 with the show beginning approximately at 7:00 PM. All guests are “invitation only” courtesy of the Alternate Root Magazine. Guests are invited to enjoy complimentary food from their legendary Mexican buffet, as well as beverages including beer, wine, soft drinks. Beverages and food are available during the filming as well. It is an opportunity to see an evening of incredible music up-close and personal in an unprecedented setting.

The suggested donation is $25.00 per person, which includes the buffet, adult beverages (including assorted Shipyard Ales and Greenvale Vinyards wine selections) and ample parking at the studio. Donations can be made through their website via PayPal or at the door when you arrive at the studio. You should email them at studioconcertseries@gmail.com.

Hope to see many of you there or at future Sessions! A full review of the venue as well as a separate review of the Session will be published here.