Posts Tagged ‘Norman Roscher’
August 2025 VOCAL Songwriters Showcase
O’Toole’s was packed August 18, 2025 for the VOCAL Showcase featuring songwriters Jim Puckett, Mark Daniel, Steve Nuckolls and Norman Roscher. The Guinness was flowing, and fish and chips, onion rings, Shepard’s Pie, salads and burgers were dished out to the enthusiast crowd of friends, family and diners. VOCAL president Matthew Costello and VOCAL vice president John Ellis tweaked the sound system before the Showcase started.
Jim Puckett
First up was Jim Puckett, who started his set with his song Riverside. Jim’s song was recently awarded VOCAL 2025 Song of the Year in a two-way tie with Steve Nuckolls, whose song One Half of the Man and a Dog was also awarded 2025 Song of the Year.
Riverside is an intriguing, moody song about hidden love and murder, “…over the railroad tracks…..well away from the preying eyes….where the secrets hide….where the weeping willow cries”. Spooky stuff, and well presented with Jim’s deep vocals and deft guitar picking.
Jim’s next two songs lightened the mood, with Breaking Ground…”it hits me that I love her in the super market line”, followed by what Jim described as a silly love song, with the lyrics ”…green bananas, taco shells and wine…”.
Mark Daniel
Next up to the stage was Mark Daniel, VOCAL 2025 Songwriter of the Year winner, in a three-way tie with Matt Manion and Steve Nuckolls, who were also awarded VOCAL 2025 Songwriter of the Year.
Mark opened his set with White Plastic Fences, an upbeat, clap-along song that describes a place “…where cows used to be…” but where now “…stands a planned community…”, with the catchy chorus “….white plastic houses, it’s a white plastic world, where you get more nuts than squirrels…” A place with a bad HOA, and “…you can’t fly your flag on a Sunday...there ain’t no way….”
Mark continued with two more songs, the first about a character who “…woke up to four gray walls that won’t let me go….” after a bout with whiskey, the devil’s water. Then came The Church That Used To Be, a song Mark wrote after coming across an old, abandoned church that was almost falling down near Williamsburg. In the corner was a piano, with its strings all sticking out, covered in dust. Mark imagined “….how it would sound, with the choir gathered ‘round…” and thought of this place that nurtured the love of Jesus, with the long-gone weddings and Sunday pot luck dinners, filled with saints and sinners. Walking away, he could almost hear the hymns Rock of Ages and The Old Rugged Cross emanating from the old structure.
Steve Nuckolls
John Ellis introduced the next songwriter, Steve Nuckolls, who, as previously mentioned, won both VOCAL awards this year. Steve started by telling the audience that many of his songs come from his experience growing up i n Galax, Virginia.
Steve’s first song, At Home on the Backroads, has the vibe of a Willie Nelson or Bruce Springsteen song.
Steve’s lyrics start out:
“Heard a song on the radio about an old dirt road
And it drove me back in time
When my heroes were real and they lived nearby
And they were friends of mine”
The chorus speaks of memories of watching over the land, a pride of place, looking out for each other, and being home on the back roads with friends.
The melody for Steve’s second song, She Remember My Beer, came to him while he was working in his yard.
It’s an ode to a favorite waitress in a special cantina who doesn’t know his name, but remembered his beer, and his hopes that maybe a relationship will develop.
Next come Steve’s award-winning song One Half of the Man and a Dog, about an old shaggy dog that always gives him the side-eye as the dog works a busy road panhandling with his owner.
Steve’s lyrical bridge:
“They get there before the morning rush
Claim their ground and get set up
Catch the divers heading in and out of town
And stay there ‘til the sun goes down”
The lyrics describe the man and dog, both with weary faces, looking like they’re carrying a heavy load. Steve’s high falsetto reminds me a bit of Neil Young.
Steve introduced What If She Likes It, sharing with the crowd that the song is about meeting his lovely wife Janice, who was seated in the audience. Years ago, Janice had been on a date with a bartender at Richmond’s Tobacco Company Restaurant and Steve had the gumption to go up to Janice and ask for her telephone number. He memorized the number on the spot and that led to Steve and Janice recently celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary. Janice had a sweet smile on her face as she watched Steve sing the song.
Steve introduced his next song The Stars of Ours Shows by asking the audience to imagine “…two young lovers on a mountaintop with a wise man reading their horoscopes.”
He followed that by taking us back to the mountains for his song Praying For a Rocky Top. The first verse:
“ I’m thankful I grew up in this town here in the mountains
Tucked between the treetops and the clouds
I’ve got a birds-eve view of paradise as far as I can see
And the air’s so thin my feet float off the ground”
For the finale of his song set, Steve introduced a fairly new one titled Pedal Steel, which he said was 99% true. “…that Sting Ray bike made by Schwinn painted in Sky Blue, banana seat and longhorn bars and a wide slick rear tire, the shiny metal and mirrored chrome would set the town on fire, had a paper route and mowed some yards saving for the day, I’d pay in cash including tax and ride that bike away.”
The chorus ends with “…thought I was wearing wings being carried by those wheels, never felt so close to Heaven when I would pedal steel”. A fitting end to a set from one of VOCAL’s finest songwriters.
Norman Roscher
Norman Roscher was called up to the stage, where he greeted the appreciative audience by saying “Always a pleasure to play at O’Tooles, and to part of VOCAL”.
Norman first performed a solo set, featuring VOCAL member Gary Shaver on saxophone for one song, and his daughter Melody Roscher on another. Norman then brought up The Clackwells band for several songs, ending the lively set with a song he co-wrote with Glen Habel, Norman’s bandmate in Dog’s New Clothes. Glen was in the audience and came up to share lead vocals with Norman on their song.
A natural showman in long, light-brown hair, mustache, ample beard and colorful tie dye shirt, Norman started his set with his song I’m A Fool, a bouncy number he played on electric keyboard, singing “I’m a fool…just keep fooling around…..walking on a high wire with an unbalanced mind…I’m just a simple man with no big dreams….”. Norman’s obvious talent belied the lyrics.
Norman then invited his ex-wife Charlotte up for his next song, the popular “So Long Baby Goodbye”. They have been singing together under many different names over the years. For this song, Charlotte sang backup to Norman’s lead, with the old-timey sound of the keyboard providing accompaniment.
Norman amused the audience by telling them “Gary’s going to whip out his horn” for the next song, referring to longtime VOCAL member Gary Shaver and his saxophone. Roamin’ Eyes was the song, and Norman said that when he was writing the song, he was searching for a feeling, and that Gary helped him find it when Gary started in with his soulful sax lines. The song ended and Norman complimented Gary by saying Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys had excellent musicians to play with, “…other fine musicians who are into what you’re doing…”, like he had with Gary, and he thanked Gary and the audience in attendance at O’Tooles who came out to hear the music.
The next two songs, If I Should Ever Get to Heaven, and Pictures of Irene, address the difficulty of losing loved ones. “Their memory stays with you forever”, said Norman.
If I Should Ever Get To Heaven was dedicated by Norman to his friend Pete Heiberger, who died in September 2024. Members of The Clackwells sang backing vocals from their seats in the audience along with Norman as he sang. The song was especially moving because Pete’s wife Sonni Gittelman was listening in the audience, and she smiled her appreciation to Norman at the end of the song.
Pictures of Irene was a tribute to Norman’s friend’s mother, who was like “another mother” to Norman. “…I’m looking at pictures of Irene, and it feels like love in a frame, and I’m crying for her love tonight…” After the song Norman said he couldn’t believe he’d never see her again.
Norman next treated the audience to a song written by VOCAL member Bill Wellons entitled I’m Gonna Take My Baby Dancin’. Norman said Bill told him the foot-tappin’ number, which describes a man who takes his baby dancing because she said they don’t go out anymore, was inspired by Norman. “….maybe shake a leg or two…..rat-ta-da-da-da…”
Norman’s daughter Melody Roscher joined Norman for Waiting for the Moon. Norman said it’s one of the favorite songs that he’s written, and has fond memories of Melody recording the song in the studio with him. “Chokes me up every time” he thinks about it. Melody added her ethereal vocals to the dreamy, gentle piano music Norman played and sang.
After the song, Norman noted that Melody wrote and directed a film entitled “Bird In Hand” that was in the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival. The narrative feature film will be shown in Richmond on September 25 at 7:00 PM at the Byrd Theatre as part of the Richmond International Film Festival. A graduate of NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, Melody splits her time between Brooklyn and Richmond.
Joining Norman for the rest of his set were The Clackwells: Christie Wright (Pistol Clackwell) on drums, Eliza Brill (Slinky Clackwell) on percussion and vocals, and Eliza’s husband Evan Esche (Stinky Clackwell) on upright bass, fiddle and vocals. Deanna Lorianni (Blinky Clackwell), who usually adds vocals and percussion, was out of town this night.
Norman and The Clackwells started with Yer Beautiful, a song of positivity….the title pretty much says it all. Eliza, with two blonde whorls falling over her shoulders from under her baseball cap, strummed the washboard and blew on the kazoo, with Evan joining her on an ooo-ahhh harmony. After the group finished, an audience member yelled out “So are you!”, spreading the beauty back to the performers.
For the next song, The Hat, Norman donned his dazzling multi-colored top hat and coat. He explained that he wrote this song for children and it was part of Dogs New Clothes repertoire. “…I live in my hat….oh lucky me….my hat is the perfect place for me to be…..I’m a magic hat….it grows as tall as a tree…..” Evan energetically plucked his bass on this magical song.
Norman shared with the audience that he was notified many years ago that his next song, Someone’s Droolin Somewhere, had won a spot on an album released as part the local XL102 radio song contest. That was until he received a call the next morning explaining that there had been a mistake someone else had taken his spot on the album. Oy vey! Gary came back up to add his sax to this number, along with The Clackwells. “Someone’s drooling over, you….better believe it!”
Strapping on his guitar, Norman introduced I Don’t Play Doctor Anymore, with Gary again on sax with The Clackwells. Describing this well-loved Roscher classic, Norman said “It never got released, but it escaped.” Christie provided a steady beat on drums while Norman sang about the one game he liked best, playing doctor, “…because that’s the game he played best”. He was determined to be the best doctor in the world. “…You won’t find me with the boys, I’m playing with my doctor’s toys….” “Go Gary…” Norman cried, and the sax notes went flyin’ for the solo. And, finally, “….Now that I’ve grown up, I’ve found what I’m lookin’ for….so I don’t play doctor anymore”.
Sweet Nector, a song about weed, conjured up images of the Virginia hills where Pappy rose at down to care for his beloved pot plants. Then at night ol’ Pappy would enjoy a taste of heaven, and live for tomorrow again.
And the final song for the night was Did I Hear Ya Say, which Norman co-wrote with Glen Habel, who came up to the stage and shared lead vocals with Norman. A great song about friendship and helping each other realize their dreams, with nice harmony from Evan and Eliza.
Norman shouted “Peace and love…..thank you!”, putting a cap on the evening of original music from our local Richmond-area songwriters. Thanks to all who made this possible and to O’Tooles for their food and hospitality!
Showcase Photos
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Photo Credits: Matthew Costello, John Ellis, Norman Roscher
December 2024 VOCAL Songwriters Showcase
VOCAL Showcase Review
The Virginia Organization of Composers and Lyricists “Holiday” Showcase on December 16 at O’Toole’s seemed more like a party of longtime friends and featured some of VOCAL’s most stalwart and accomplished members.
John Ellis
Master of Ceremonies John Ellis (also VOCAL VP) warmly welcomed the attendees before kicking off the show with his chimey “Winter Solstice” instrumental, which featured beautiful opening arpeggios and some assertive strumming in the main section. Claiming his favorite season of fall next, “Autumn Hours” celebrated time passing more languidly in that period where “peaceful nights clear my mind.” A romantic scene followed in his “Me and My Baby on a Cold Winter Day” with its solid rock chording and blues feel, singing he would “keep the fire blazing” in his expressive baritone. He closed with a lament in a story about a wayward woman who put him “In My Place” despite the fact he “tried to give you something you can’t replace.”
Glen King
Award-winning songwriter Glen King stepped up next, using keyboards to underpin his tunes of love and celebration. “New Year’s Eve With You” took the holiday at the end of the year as the time “I’d like to hold you tight, feel your love inside me” and evoked street scenes in Times Square as a way of pointing out his longing to be closer to his lover. “Rocket Woman” used that Scottish colloquial for a beautiful woman to praise his lover, singing “baby, you’re the best in show.” In a nod to the season at a different time of the year, “Christmas Came Early” was a thankful lyric about “one little present” that was a “wonder in a blanket, a new born boy.” Glen closed with “Nobody Else Comes Close”, described as a love letter to his wife who delighted in “bringing out the child in me.”
Russell Lawson and Matthew Costello
Impromptu showcasers followed with Russell Lawson presenting “Dear Santa” and Christmastime” and Matthew Costello wowing the crowd with a spirited rendition of “Digging For Elvis” that had the audience loudly singing the well-known chorus.
Glenda Creamer
Glenda Creamer’s set opened with her charming “The Cookie Exchange”, a story of self-discipline amid seasonal treats where “I don’t want to eat Christmas Cookies no more” was a hard aspiration to keep. Her next tune described the regrettable effects of “Those Magazines” she read, from recipes to exercise to self-examination that had her “getting in more trouble than I ever seen.” Her tuneful and expressive “Don’t Be Frightened, Mary” included Matt Manion singing the male roles in the story of Mary’s Annunciation and the fearful message that she would bear the Son of God.
Matt Manion
Matt kept the stage for his own set that began with “Hotel by the Highway” where the singer encountered a live band and observed a group of fellow travelers who enticed him to join in unanticipated dancing and socialization. A brief tune called “Give the Gift” featured some of Matt’s interesting chording and exhortation for listeners to give the gift of forgiveness to others. The final “Sit Down for Standby”, a retelling of the wait imposed on a traveler at the conclusion of a journey home when money was short and only the bargain of standby would get the singer home. John Ellis sat in on lead guitar for this mid-tempo rocker and added tasty melodic phrases among the lyric.
Norman Roscher
Norman Roscher topped off the bill with his customary showmanship and charisma, supported by John Ellis on guitar. Despite being hampered by a couple of fractured fingers (hence the appearance of Ellis), Norman delivered enthusiastic renditions of some of his favorite compositions. “Me and You and Baby” included some lively scatting over John’s solid playing in a song that combined elements of fancy from Mother Goose to fairy tales. “You and Me”, a warm description of a couple whose dating had just begun, emphasized the affection and companionship the singer felt and wanted the lover to feel. “Waiting for the Moon” incorporated an impressionistic set of scenes, evocative language and very compelling guitar lines from Ellis, to describe a world in which someone was waiting, was the “we” the singer…a couple…a group? Finally, he sang “All I Want For Christmas” where he longed for “a little less bad news” to create a “happier holiday.”
A group of showcase musicians then led the audience in a sing-along through a few of well-known seasonal favorites, concluding the December showcase on a high note indeed. Merry Christmas, everyone!
Showcase Photos
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Photo Credits: Matthew Costello
June 2024 VOCAL Songwriters Showcase
O’Toole’s was packed for the June 17, 2024 VOCAL Showcase featuring songwriters Dave Drouillard and Norman Roscher. Dave started the evening off with his solo set, and, after a short break, Norman performed solo and then alongside his band Norman and the Clackwells.
Dave Drouillard
Dave opened with a lovely mandolin instrumental called “Grandma Betty’s Waltz”, which he wrote three years ago for his mother. Next was a new song named “Hymn to the Crooked Road” which he wrote as part of a writer’s project for The Crooked Road, Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail in Abingdon, VA. Then, Dave shifted to his six-string guitar and finger-picked his song “Angel in High Heels”, about a young woman who came to Boston to study law and “defended the lowest…before a judge…an angel in high heels…country music her delight”.
Dave continued with “Walk Away From My Door”, a song about the Dust Bowl he wrote 60 years ago when he was 14 years old, trying to imitate Woody Guthrie. Lyrics included “…We came out west to work the land, we found America together hand in hand, but now the dream has turned to dust, the well is dry the plow is rust.” “Robin’s Song” followed, an Appalachian folk tale Dave wrote for his wife Robin, including “…and I love you forever like grapes on an endless vine.”
Dave, in white collared shirt and blue jeans, and grey-speckled hair and beard, switched to a Roland keyboard for his next song, “After The Buffalo”. He wrote this around the time of the Kent State Shootings, which occurred at Kent State University in Ohio in May 1970 at a rally opposing the Vietnam War. Four students were killed and many wounded. “You cannot understand why it haunts me so…” he sang of that tragic time.
Dave finished his set with an inspirational, moving song written by fellow VOCAL member Glen King, entitled “Walking in The Light”. At the keyboard, playing with purposeful intent and with strong vocals, Dave sang: “I do not tremble, when I see a cloud. I feel no panic in a gathering storm…I am walking in the light, in the light of Jesus. I am walking where shadows fear to go.” Dave’s set was well-received by the appreciative crowd.
Norman Roscher
Norman walked onstage in striking visual style, with multi-colored top hat, jacket and tie, his long hair tucked neatly under his hat, along with his full, flowing beard. He played a KORG keyboard for his first song, entitled “Heaven”, and sang “…If I should ever get to heaven, it won’t be because I lived a holy life…”. The song continued that maybe he drank too much whiskey or loved too many girls, but that he could only be himself. A bouncy vocal interlude of “bump, bump, bump” got the audience singing along.
It has been said you can identify a great artist immediately upon hearing them. Norman is one of those artists. Top hat or not, when you hear Norman, you know it’s Norman. The gravelly growl, calliope piano sound and brilliant costumes harken back to vaudeville and make Norman a one-of-a-kind musician and singer/songwriter.
He introduced his next song “I’m A Fool” as a slow one, and it had strong chords and a boogie rhythm. “I’m just a simple man….but I’m a fool” he sang, playing quick runs up the keyboard. Next was “So Long Baby”, a toe-tappin’ composition Norman wrote in the 1970’s. He was joined onstage by Charlotte, and, one of Norman and Charlotte’s three daughters, Deanna, who both provided background vocals.
“I Think I’m Going to Take My Baby Dancin’” followed, a jumpy tune written by VOCAL’s Bill Wellons, one of Norman’s favorite local songwriters. “She’s got no rhythm, but she don’t care….well, I’ve never been a Fred Astaire.” The O’Toole’s crowd sang along at the end, “Tonight!...tonight!”
The beautiful “Waiting for the Moon” included vocal harmonies from Deanna and Norman’s youngest daughter Melody (Mel). Norman recalls recording the song with musical partner Glenn Habel in the 1990’s for Dog’s New Clothes first real CD. Mel, just 11 years old at the time, was in the studio as they worked on it. As he sang, Norman showed his proficiency on the keyboard with almost chime-line sounds, and ended the song by telling the audience “Singing with my daughters is the greatest high.”
Norman said he started writing songs when he transferred from John Tyler Community College to VCU in 1970. He continued his set by strapping on his guitar and bringing up The Clackwells, whose lineup is: Eliza Brill (Slinky Clackwell) on vocals and washboard; her husband, Evan Esche (Stinky Clackwell) on vocals, fiddle and bass; Deanna Lorianni (Blinky Clackwell) on vocals and percussion; and Christie Wright (Pistol Clackwell) on Drums.
The Clackwells first song carried forward the distinctive tongue-in-cheek Roscher style, the lively “Dr. (Doctor)” with the lyrics “I liked to play doctor, because at doctor I was best…” and later “…I found what I was looking for, so I don’t play doctor anymore….” The rollicking “You, Me and Baby” followed, a song Norman wrote for his kids, which featured great vocal backup from the Clackwells. Then “Sweet Nector”, a song about an imaginary pot farm, and also “You’re Beautiful”, a song encouraging the listener to say you’re beautiful when you wake up, which featured a jaunty “call and response” between the band and the audience.
Norman dedicated his next song “The Hat” to his young grandson Cyrus, who was in the audience with Norman’s family. Lyrics included “I live in my hat…..my hat is the perfect place to be.” Norman then brought up VOCAL member and Spectrum band’s Gary Shaver (The Blade), who added his saxophone to “Roamin’ Eyes”. Gary, in Hawaiian shirt and shorts, blew notes up the scales, eyes closed as his smooth, rich sax sounds reached soaring heights. Norman said the song was almost 40 years old and originally arranged and produced by Richmond’s music legend Bruce Olsen.
Norman then thanked the large crowd for coming out, and introduced the Clackwells’ last tune, the love song “Within Your Eyes”. After they finished, the large crowd insisted on an encore, which they obliged with the “Clackwell Theme”, a hilarious fictional history of the Norman and The Clackwells Band, with the mom as a lady wrestler who “….learned to play the washboard doing laundry all the time…” and “If you don’t like their music, I guess you’ll leave the room.” But the real finale and show stopper was Norman’s quintessential song “Boobs”, “…shoo-ba-dee-do…” about a man’s live-long love, obsession and devotion.
A fine night of music, iced-tea, onion-rings, dark and light beers, and friends.
Showcase Photos
Click a photo for larger view
Photo Credits: Matthew Costello
Dave Drouillard
Dave Drouillard
Dave Drouillard
Norman Roscher
Norman Roscher, Deanna, Charlotte
Norman Roscher
Norman Roscher, Deanna, Mel,
Norman Roscher
Norman Roscher
Gary Shaver,
O'Toole's Audience
O'Toole's Audience
March 2020 VOCAL Songwriters Showcase
The March 2020 VOCAL Showcase took place on Monday, March 9, 2020 at O’Toole’s Irish Pub. The showcase had a Spring theme, so performers were asked to perform at least one song with that in mind.
Joan Smith opened the show with Emergence, a Spring-like love song calling for the awakening of her heart. She followed with Pot of Gold, a search for something more in life, possibly even leading to a leprechaun at the end of a rainbow! The Yes Man is a unique a cappella doo-wop style song, giving it back to the man dangling too-good-to-be-true offers in front of you. Let’s see your credit score and I’ll see what I can do!
Gary Luong, who’s only been writing for a year or so, opened with a really cool heartbreak song, You’re the One Who Taught Me Guitar. His next room-quietening tune was a very delicate Ed Sheerin-ish number, recounting the advice from his father (I’ve Got to Give Back My Love to You). He enlisted the grooving help of a looping machine for his last tune, saying we’re still young and have plenty of time to live out our lives together.
Bill Kaffenberger returned to the VOCAL stage with three of his offerings. Early Spring was written by his friend and local RVA songwriter Steve Antonacci, who recently passed away. This is a really touching song about the promises Spring will bring, and Bill plans to play this at Steve’s upcoming memorial service. She’s So Real describes the girl with a heart a million miles high, and a smile a million miles wide. If only he could get near her to tell her! What am I Doing Here has him sitting on his hands, with no one listening to what he has to say. Things have never been good to him, and probably never will be. You may never strike a chord anywhere near fame, but you can’t give up or you’ll lose the game.
Jim Puckett then took the stage with The Sunshine Knows Your Name, where the warm Spring sun trumps all the bitterness that Winter can throw at you. Lenten Roses delivers on the promise of Spring, with the beauty of the blooming flowers, showing the fruit of your labors. Doesn’t the Rain Still Fall had some really cool images of the sun always shining, the wind sneaking down the mountain, babies always crying, etc.
Long-time member Karen Trump graced the stage after quite a long absence. It was great to hear her stellar roots/folk/blues offerings. God’s Redeeming Grace was reminiscent of the Carter Family, a Spring-ish number about falling in love when the flowers are in bloom. Silver-Tongued Devil was a delightfully dark number about succumbing to temptation. No Spring Chicken is something most of us can relate to. While we’re still quite able in a lot of areas, there’s certainly nothing wrong with hitting the sack at 9:30! Welcome back, Karen!
Martin McNeil brought us some fine British muse with Back in Your Arms Again, asking for his lover to hold and soothe him. Give Myself Up to the Night was a poignant number, crying all the tears at the station, and hitting the road on the 8:39 train. He ended with In My Breakdown, receiving an arrow through the heart from his former lover.
Norman Roscher ended the evening of original music as only he can do. My Bitch Lad was a very irreverent (but tender and loving) tune about a young lad walking through the woods when he was “taken in” by a woman for her personal needs. So was there a loser in this transaction? He then delivered a tune written by fellow “Vocal-onian” Bill Wellons, Gonna Take My Baby Dancing. This is just a really happy, feel-good song about kicking your feet up on the dance floor! Waiting for The Moon is a signature Norman tune from the Dog’s New Clothes era, and is always a crowd favorite!
2019 VOCAL Open Mic,
January 2019 VOCAL Showcase
Norman Roscher
Welcome to the first open mic night of the year. While the temperature took a dive into frigidity, the atmosphere in O’Toole’s was warm and toasty for some original music.
Hosting the event was stalwart entertainer Norm Roscher. To kick off the night he exhibited his exuberant piano styling with a couple of his tunes. “Yer Beautiful” was a tribute to an an attractive lady who evinced the qualities of the title in her style of dress and looks. “Apple Wine”, an older song rarely done by Norm, was a wistful journey into a young romance that ended sadly with one participant leaving the country.
Steve Nuckolls
Next up was another stalwart of VOCAL, Steve Nuckolls, who regaled the huddled audience with a trio of his well written songs. “Saturday Morning With Emmie Lou” Was tale of learning to play along with her (Emmie Lou Harris’s) songs, proudly gearing up for the session with new guitar strings and picks. He followed that with “Each Town Has It’s own Rocky Top” which illustrated how small towns have a great country vibe of people and atmosphere. A song written while running, was next. “When Like Turns to Love” which analogized the transformation of emotions to the weather.
Jeff Wagner
A fairly new member of VOCAL, Jeff Wagner, on guitar, followed Steve. “Wide Open Wyoming” was a tale of two separated lovers who fouhd a way to come together by compromising their geographic differences, in a hurricane, no less. “I Think I Might Forget, This Time” details a desire to get over a past relationship but the singer keeps getting images of her, that won’t go away, and leaves him perplexed. Jeff closed his set with “Who’s Your God” a sort of self explanatory song that asks the listener to think about what they worship.
Keely Burn
Keely Burn, a younger member of VOCAL, came on stage next with her newly acquired baritone ukulele and tested out her chops on “I’m Not Afraid” a work in progress, but still well done. Next, she performed “Come Down Love” , which she opened with a whistle intro, before getting into the song. This was a plea to an unrequited lover to recognize her and give her a chance at romance with the line “Plant your flag on me”. “Lightning” was the next tune. In this one, she seems to be mad at a love interest for being jilted, somewhat amazed at quickly emotions can change.
To round out the night, Norm returned to play a few more of his songs. In his more bawdier manner, the first song was “Mr. Calls Got Big Balls” followed by a co-written ( Pam McCarthy) tune “Idle Time” and closing out with a standard of his”So Long Baby, Bye Bye”.
Once again, a great night of music was provided and enjoyed by all present.
Happy New Year from VOCAL.
VOCAL Showcase April 2011
An intimate and attentive crowd gathered at O’Toole’s for the April, 2011 showcase. James Lester opened the show with his fine bluesman-ship. I Like Your Love is an uptempo bluesy number – I’m usually kinda shy, but you have a way of bringing me out of my shell every time you hug me. Circus Blues is a “near-bluegrass” song – something hasn’t been right since the circus came to town – she’s been going out alone and hanging out with the clowns. Now the clown is knocking at our door – should I stay or should I go? Coatesville Blues is a drinking song searching for four-leaf clovers and other things to turn your life around. It only takes a buck and a little luck to get by in this town, but I need the doctor to give me something to take these blues away. Generation Blues is a contrast of life from yesterday and that of today – my dad told me to save for a rainy day, but I pray for a sunny day. There’s plenty of sex, drugs, and rock and roll, but Jesus is nowhere to be found. Satisfried is the story of a man with a great wife who has a good job and knows how to cook. She makes me feel like a king on my throne – I’m satisfied, satisfried. Blues Sky Blue was co-written with Steve Yates. This tender love song tells how his woman makes all his blues go away – I love my odds with you, in a formation of two, you turn my blues sky blue. Why I Sing the Blues was in an alternate tuning that sounded really cool. I get so depressed watching the news – everyone’ fighting ‘cause God is on their side. Whatever happened to a positive vibe? The “addiction” song Lame Pony told us I don’t want no woman don’t know right from wrong – she tried to hold me under her ball and chain – the tears came down like pouring rain – I gave her a lot of money, but it was not enough – I’m gonna take off walkin’, the pony’s going lame. James’ next tune was an instrumental called “E Thang”. Drinking Again was a sad tale about a woman walking out on her man – the last time I saw you was when you walked out the door – you don’t love me anymore – I can’t win – here I am drinking again. It’s All About Money says there ain’t a damn thing funny about the sad situation I’m in – my congressman doesn’t care about me, so my campaign contribution is in the mail. Deva (short for deviant?) is about a bad cat that’s always trying to kill things. Why can’t you just get along – why do you have to be jealous of all the other cats? James ended his set with the country-flavored Make My Day. As I watch you pack your bags, I wonder if we could have a last lusty fling. One more roll in the hay sure would make my day!
Matt Manion then took the stage, opening with a couple of numbers reminiscent of the 70’s. Don’t Remember Thinkin’ took him back to when I don’t remember thinking of the hassles we’d been through – in my state of loneliness, things seemed to be brand new. The Crossroads travelled back to the early days of the Crossroads Coffeehouse in the basement of St. James’s Church – the wooden chairs, coffee and cookies, and guitar players. Going to the Crossroads – I wanna play, I wanna sing, just put me down for anything. Nesmith and he grew up together but apart along parallel paths – raised in the country, but off to Richmond you roamed – I’m sure glad I reached you. God’s Rhythm asks God to help me find my rhythm, find my beat, shake this clumsy body, move these wooden feet – I can feel you in the floorboards – let him work things out.
Matt then invited Valerie Rourke onto the stage, and she performed two lovely a cappella numbers. If You Should Go is reminiscent of Patsy Cline – if you should go, I won’t come after you, or try to hurt you – now you have gone, but I’ll never know why you decided to leave, and I only torture myself when I believe you still think of me. Valerie left us with Torn in Two, which tells of one who is undecided on whether to stay or leave – one side of me loves you so, the other hates you because of how you treat me. My friends all say I should leave you, because you will never change – my heart thinks different, so what am I to do?
Matt returned to the stage with two fellow Vocal-onians, John Ellis (guitar) and Norm Roscher (“sin” thesiser). The thoughtful and dreamy Old Rolling Sea was inspired by body surfing (Norm was surfing his keyboard) and told of the power, depth, and age of the sea. You can feel and taste the salt spray just thinking about it! Don’t Need to be Perfect states that I don’t need to be right, macho, or bright, I just need to be me. Man’s Man is a call for a man who’s not afraid to take me by the hand and be a loyal friend to the very end – don’t care if he’s shy, don’t care what people say – if they talk, I don’t give a damn! John Ellis joined in with his smoking electric guitar on this number. Matt ended the set with Sit Down for Standby, an all-too-familiar story about trying to get home on a standby flight. John & Norm joined in again for this tune. We’re all just travelers stuck in the same boat – if I don’t get a flight, I don’t get home.
Submitted by Steve Nuckolls
VOCAL Showcase February 2011
-by Matt Manion
Collaboration between VOCAL members was on display February 21, 2011 at February’s VOCAL Showcase at O’Tooles Restaurant. Headliner Steve Nuckolls was joined on stage by fellow VOCAL members John Ellis and Larry Cody. Gary Shaver, who opened the evening, brought up Norman Roscher and friend Alan Cole, and surprised a few songwriters in attendance by performing their songs. Bill Kaffenberger, who was originally scheduled to perform, was unable to make it, but hopefully Bill will join us for a future showcase.
Gary, at his keyboard, opened his set with two of his own love songs. The first contained the refrain “my love is somewhere between her and you”. Gary’s performance caused one member of the audience to comment that Gary sounded like Floyd Cramer, the American Hall of Fame pianist who was one of the architects of the “Nashville Sound”. Gary followed it with a song about lovers who look back on their affair, the only thing left being “words on a page, yellow with age.”
The wood and brick interior of O’Tooles came alive for the next number when Gary invited Norman Roscher up to the keyboard to perform a rollicking Norman song called “Roamin’ Eye”. Gary blew alto sax as Alan Cole added tenor sax, and Norman sang in his distinctive, rich, gravely voice “…can’t put a leash on them dog-gone roamin’ eyes.”
Gary then announced that he was going to play a composition written by his friend Frank Lucas, who was in the audience. Alan added sax over Gary’s keyboards and showed how lovely and complete just two instruments can sound. Frank seemed pleased at the unexpected surprise.
Falling scales and deft fingerwork highlighted Gary’s next song, which he said sat unfinished for 10 years at the end of his piano bench. Expressing the struggle of human communications, he entoned “we’re just lost at sea, if you won’t talk to me.” And later…”let’s not sink too deep, just believe in me.”
Gary had another surprise up his sleeve. This time he honored Jim Uzel, another VOCAL member in the audience, by performing a Uzel composition. A sad, last song to a once lover, the lyrics tell the story: “…now that our love is gone, all that’s left is a sweet, sweet love song.” The song ends with a beautiful chord change.
Gary dedicated his last song, a Shaver original, to Marg, who was enjoying the music at a nearby table. A heartfelt love song, Gary sang “…and I stand amazed by your love”, and “…I thank you, my darling, for lifting me up”.
John Ellis served as MC for the evening and announced that Steve Nuckolls would be up shortly. After a brief interlude, Gary introduced Steve, who introduced his first song: Simunye.
Steve explained that the inspiration for Simunye came from a trip Steve and his wife Janice took to Africa. They had ridden an hour on horseback to a Zulu village which had no water or electricity. A reunification effort was going on at that time after a civil war, and “Simunye” can be translated as “we are one” or “we are one with this land”. John added guitar to this moving song, and member Larry Cody added harmony from the audience during the chorus.
Next was one of Steve’s newer songs, the genesis of which came this past New Year’s Eve as he was out running. “My Prayer of Thanks” is an expression of appreciation of each day, with the recognition that it could be our last. Steve dedicated his next song, “Grayson Lady”, to Ethel. It was an uptempo song with images of forests and hills.
John added guitar, and Larry plucked the bass, for Steve’s next song, “Making My Getaway”. The three musicians fell right in together and their instruments and vocals blended as if they had just come off the road after a long tour. During “When the Flag’s Half-Mast” that followed, a member of the audience commented “That Larry Cody can keep some time. He’s just got a good ear.”
Next up was “Sunrise” featuring Steve’s high, clear tenor sailing over the guitars. John’s lead was perfect, sounding almost like a banjo. A hopeful, gorgeous, song with lyrics “…you know there’s always a sunrise”.
“There’s something about your love that keeps me on the ground…” sang Steve for his next tune, followed by a song he described as a “true story told second hand”. One audience member commented that Steve hits those high notes like Dan Fogelberg. Coincidentally, Steve joked from the stage “I think I’ll do one with my high voice.” Steve ended his set with his “At Home on the Back Roads” and “Living Out This Love” rounding out a great set for the appreciative audience.
A fine evening of original music, made finer by the collaboration between our members and friends. Please join us for the next VOCAL showcase April 21 and watch for our newsletter for details.
VOCAL Showcase December 2009
VOCAL’s holiday showcase was number 221 in the longest running continuous showcase in Central Virginia! It was much more than a typical showcase with 10 performers, a standing room only crowd and a festive atmosphere. The festivities were almost brought to a halt by a surprisingly large winter snow storm two days earlier, but with passable roads, the showcase went on without a hitch!
While the music is the reason for having a showcase, the December showcase was much more than a musical exhibition. The night came together because of the generosity of our supporters, the hard work of our performers, the spirit of our audience!
We were all glad to be back at O’Tooles restaurant at 4800 Forest Hill Avenue in Richmond for the second showcase at this great location. It’s a wonderful venue for music, food and to celebrate a festive time of the year.
Part of the evening’s festivities were giveaways for the audience. CD’s were donated by The Taters, Marna Bales, Dave Pollard, Norman Roscher, Cy Taggart, Gerry Laverty and Pops Walker. We cannot thank these folks enough for their generosity, wich added a lot to the evening’s excitement. During short intermissions spread across the evening, drawings were held for the audience members who received boxed sets of the donated CD’s. We also must pass along a huge thanks to Gary Shaver for bringing along the tickets for the drawing and generally helping with the giveaways. Matt Manion was invaluable in his assistance with the giveaways for the VOCAL members in attendance.
The music was the main point of the evening, but there was so much packed into this one evening, it would be impossible to fit it all into one article. Gary Shaver was on hand to play with fellow songwriters such as Bill Wellons and John Ellis as well as performing some of his own work. Rose Ann Robbins did a spoken word performance of one of her poems, adding a unique touch to the evening. Other performing songwriters included Steve Nuckolls, Norman Roscher, Matthew Costello, James Lester and Don Pinkleton with son Robbie.
The Taters wrapped the night up in a great big bow for the holidays, with a thirty minute set that included tried and true, tasty Tater tunes, as well as some cover songs including a grand jam of Feliz Navidad that included most of the performers from the night! It was such a great time. The night just flew by and everyone was in great spirits heading up to Christmas.
Thanks to Larry Cody for producing the evening’s flyers, to Matt Manion for his continued assistance with anything that is needed and to all the fans, listeners, members of the public and anyone within listening distance! We’ll see you in 2010!
VOCAL Showcase July 2009
It was a hot summer night when we kicked off Showcase #216, but inside the TapHouse, there was a cool blast of sound waves emanating from the stage! The crowd filled the better part of the venue, and as some of the dinner crowd left, more folks filed in to see what was cookin’ on the stage. James Lester with special guest Tom Mayer (from Barrelhouse) gave a harmonica infused dose of sweet blues, then Matt Manion gave a great set of folk and rock. And to keeping it all rolling along, VOCAL’s guest MC for the evening, Louis Millhouse, kicked off the music and introduced our artists.
What would great music be, without a great venue to set the atmosphere? Join VOCAL at Richbrau’s TapHouse each month for the perfect environment to experience freshly prepared meals, fine crafted micro-brew beverages and well crafted songwriting. You’ll find us at 1212 East Cary Street in Shockoe Slip every third Monday of the month.
Louis’s song ‘Marathon’ was a great way to begin the evening and a sampling from his showcase appearance scheduled for later this year. With a sweet acoustic rhythm and the warm, sandy imagery of living in the Keys with a drink in hand, Louis had the crowd swinging in the breeze of his tropical rhythm. After warming up the crowd with this tropical excursion, Louis introduced the first performer.
James Lester wasted no time getting the crowd worked up as he kicked off his set with ‘I Like Your Love’, a bluesy number that gets feet to stompin’ and heads-a-boppin’. Alternating between his own songs and the songs of his guest, Tom Mayer, James turned the microphone over for the next song ‘Home Cooking’, a tune featuring Tom’s vocals and harmonica. Throughout the set, Tom’s harmonica was present on each song and what a treat it was for the ears! Whether on James’ songs such as ‘Lame Pony Blues’ and ‘Where’s My Baby’ or Tom’s songs ‘The Night is Closing In’ and ‘All My Wife’s Relations’ the duo put on quite a fine sampling of guitar based blues, spiced up with a heavy dose of hot harmonica licks. James gave quite a performance on the fretboard alternating between strumming and finger-style playing, with each song leaving your ears begging for more. Tom really let it rip on ‘Lame Pony Blues’ where he laid down a harmonica solo that nearly set the roof on fire! Lyrically, the duo served some low-down blues such as ‘The Night is Closing In’ as well as some comic relief with the songs ‘All My Wife’s Relations’ and ‘Where’s My Baby’. VOCAL thanks James and Tom for bringing their blues skills to the showcase stage. Look out for the next showcase performance from this duo. You can also keep up with them on the web at www.myspace.com/jameslesterblue and www.myspace.com/barrelhouserva .
When the first set was over, it seemed a shame for the music to end, but there was no reason to worry about that with the evening’s featured performer Matt Manion. Sharing his style of acoustic music, Matt carried the audience through an evening of folk and rock songs that used many themes including the difficulties of work life and the thoughts of personal reflection, wrapped up in lyrics that were sometimes somber, sometimes humorous and sometimes poetic, but always thoughtful. Starting off with a blend of humor and maybe horror, ‘The Royal Roach Hotel’ was Matt’s telling of a not-so-wonderful stay while working in the oil fields of Louisianna. Keeping on the theme of rough work experiences, ‘Power Play’, had a bit of a Punk feel to the rhythm, which served the lyrics well as the song addresses the frustration that can exist in some work environments. ‘Forget Yourself’ was a very reflective song with an easy, calming melody.
Matt had surprises in store for the audience as he called John Ellis to the stage to accompany with lead electric guitar on ‘Losin’ My Hair’, a humorous, but somewhat introspective song about one of life’s struggles. Next Matt brought Gary Shaver to the stage on clarinet and Norman Roscher on keyboard along with John Ellis on lead guitar to add ambience to his poetic and inspiring ‘O Rolling Sea’. Norman’s keyboard work added a nice ambience to the song, which evoked images of the ocean waves that Matt used in his recorded version. With Gary on the clarinet, the song had more depth thanks to the wonderful tone of his instrument and the delicate, swelling runs he used to accentuate the mood of the song. Thanks to Matt and his guest performers for providing a unique interpretation of a very unique song.
Matt finished up his set with a few more songs including one that has a 50’s Doo-Wop feel to my ears, with lyrics about strength in love ‘Man’s Man’, and a great song for any Matt Manion performance ‘Don’t Need to Be Perfect’. Thanks to Matt for a great set of creative, original musical variety.
VOCAL would not be the great organization that it is without a great group of volunteers helping out. Thanks to Matt Manion for providing the sound system for the evening and to John Ellis and Matthew Costello for sharing soundman duties. Larry Cody is kind enough to provide table tent-cards for each performance to inform our listeners about the evening’s performers. Matthew Costello also keeps our website up to date and handles most of our photography work. But it would all be for naught, without an audience to perform for, so thanks to all who show up or otherwise support our songwriters. We’ll see you next month!
VOCAL Showcase April 2009
Showcase number 213, was the annual cover night for VOCAL. Performers covered at least one song from a fellow VOCAL songwriter. The night was full of surprises and anticipation as the weather kept performers at home and the night turned into a review of some of VOCAL’s outstanding long-time members.
The showcase is hosted each month by Richbrau’s TapHouse. Come join us at 1212 East Cary Street in Richmond’s historic Shockoe Slip for fine food and great beverages from this local brew-pub. Enjoy the company of our songwriters as you enjoy your meals in a great venue.
Steve Nuckolls kicked off the night with his brand of thoughtful narratives drawing on many life experiences to craft songs of deep meaning. The set started off with ‘Making My Getaway’ an original of Steve’s with good feeling and a nice easy rhythm. Steve then presented his cover song ‘Sundown in a Coal Town’ which was penned by VOCAL’s John Carter. The song is about miners expressing their passions and hopes on a Saturday night through their own music. The set then turned reflective with Steve’s song ‘When the Flag’s Halfmast’, which is about the memories conjured up when we see this reminder of those no longer with us. The first set concluded with the hopeful and spiritual song inspired by a trip to an African village ‘Simunye’. Thanks to Steve for a great start to the evening.
Gary Shaver took to the stage next for his first of two sets. Gary’s ‘Your Sweet Love’ was a great way to get started. Gary’s cover songs inlcuded a number written by the team of Nancy Walker and Cham Laughlin as well as a number from Chris Craig.
A short intermission was allowed for the attending songwriters to determine the next guest up to the stage. It seems that the weather kept many of our songwriters at home for the evening and we wanted to keep the spirit of the open call alive. About the time we were ready to pick straws to see who would play next, someone asked ‘Where’s Norman’? No sooner were these words uttered, than Norman Roscher appeared – as if Huddini had conjured him up with a magic word and a puff of smoke zapping Norman from his peaceful home to Shockoe slip. He was immediately drafted into the showcase line-up!
Norman used an acoustic guitar loaned by our first performer Steve Nuckolls and Gary Shaver’s keyboard to put on an impromptu, and incredibly entertaining show! Sampling his song catalogue, Norman played songs that were sometimes sweet and sometimes just wild and fun! One of my favorites ‘Keep on Droolin’ was a humorous reminder that no matter how alone we feel at times, there’s someone droolin’ for you somewhere (even if it’s someone you’d be more inclined to run from than embrace). Songs like ‘Mr. Sleepy Head’ and ‘Butterflies’ had a good bit of the sweetness I mentioned earlier, while ‘Bart the Pirate’ (a Glen Hobles song) and ‘Hey Baby You’re Beautiful’ were just great fun to listen to and sing along with. We can’t thank Norman enough for volunteering his talents to keep the showcase rolling along!
Gary Shaver stepped back up on the showcase stage to present his second set of the evening. ‘Tell Me You Love Me One More Time’, written by Nancy Walker and Jeff Long was the first song of the set and a fantastic ballad with a great melody. The set was rounded out with ‘Make Everything Alright’, ‘If I Could Go Back Home’ and ‘As All Things Pass’.
Thanks to our volunteers for making the showcase a great event. Larry Cody provides table tent cards to advertise the showcase, Matthew Costello handles photography and web development and John Ellis handles sound services. Thanks as well to the performers and all who show up to the showcases each month!
VOCAL Showcase January 2009
The showcase counter turned to 210 as the VOCAL members prepared the stage sound for the monthly installment of live, original music in Central Virginia. The heavy double doors of the TapHouse entrance kept the cold out as the instruments were tuned up and the house was warmed up with the sounds of VOCAL songwriters. Performers Bill Wellons and Norman Roscher treated the audience to a night of great songwriting. It was a great night for music, January 19, 2009.
We thank Richbrau’s TapHouse for hosting the showcase each month. Join us every third Monday of the month for great food, home brewed beverages and the best of live original music from Virginia artists. The location is 1212 East Cary Street in historic Shockoe Slip.
Bill Wellons took the first set and showed the audience a great time with songs ranging from the ballads to the blues, from slow and easy to upbeat boogie rhythms. Bills voice was accompanied by fine fingerwork on the piano. He blew the crowd away with ‘Hurricane’ a moderate tempo song with sort of a bluesy, folk lyrical content, but a light, easy, steady piano pattern. Bill then injected a little humor into the evening with ‘In a Family Way’, a humorous look at expecting the arrival of a baby – this song had an upbeat “boogie” rhythm to my ear. The instrumental ‘That’s How it Goes’ was a beautiful song and an interesting change from the earlier songs. The emotional content of the music swept from tender reflection to humor and love with the next series of songs including a tribute to Bill’s father ‘When I Needed You’ and another boogie tune ‘Unlucky at Love’.
It was great to have Bill on the showcase stage and we hope to have him back soon. Until then, you can hear some of Bills music at www.myspace.com/billwellons.
At the request of Bill Wellons and Norman Roscher, time was set aside for special tributes to Cham Laughlin, VOCAL’s founder, who passed away January 5, 2009. Cham was a great inspiration and source of support for many songwriters and performers in Virginia. VOCAL took time to honor Cham with a few songs.
First to pay tribute to Cham was Darryl Ellyson with his song ‘The Final Hour’ a very moving song about contemplating the end of life www.myspace.com/darrylellysonbluelightdistrict. Next, Eddy Kitchen performed ‘This Beer’s on Me’ which is a light-hearted country style song featuring Larry Cody on lead guitar. Eddy’s song was somewhat the reason for Cham and Eddy first working together. Norman Roscher gave the final tribute with ‘If I Should Ever Get to Heaven’. We thank Bill and Norman for remembering Cham by setting aside this time and thanks to each performer for taking time to honor our founder.
For the closing set of the evening, Norman Roscher took to the stage with family and friends in the formation of ‘Norman and the Clackwells’ to bring his unique, imaginative music to life. The first song was the reminiscent, fun song ‘I Don’t Play Doctor Anymore’. Keeping the fun alive, the act moved on to the song ‘Fat Alice’. The Clackwell portion of the band was made up of Evan Esch on upright bass, Eliza Brill (Evan’s spouse) on backup vocals and washboard rhythms, and Norman’s daughter Deanna Lorriani on vocals. The Clackwells rounded out Norman’s live sound nicely! Another special guest, Charlotte Roscher joined the group with backing vocals for ‘So Long Baby Goodbye’.
So much of Norman’s music has lively rhythms and catchy words that make you want to sing along. Norman included some of his lively material in the closing portion of the program, which included ‘Kazooka’, ‘Burn Baby Dynamo’ and ‘I Don’t Want to Grow Up’ for the Peter Pan’s in the audience. Catch Norman on the web at www.myspace.com/normalnormannortledorfband .
I can’t give enough thanks to Norman, Bill and my cousin Kenneth Sebera for making themselves available to help out on the showcase as I recovered from a back injury. They showed up early to make sure the showcase was ready to roll and helped me pack up as well. It was truly a group effort this month!
VOCAL’s thanks goes to all of our performers and to the showcase crowd who supports our wonderful artists. Thanks to Larry Cody for making the table tent cards to announce the performers, thanks to Matthew Costello for web support and John Ellis for sound services. Until next month, be sure to support other live, original music events!
