DARLING DIN, RON GALLO, JESS BEST + MORE AT ARLENE'S GROCERY

Siren Sounds, a publicity company launched by Pancakes and Whiskey’s very own Lindsey Gardner, put together a show of very diversely brilliant artists at Arlene’s Grocery. The show was relaxed but a great way to spend a Wednesday night. First in the line up was Leo Liebeskind, a young folk singer and guitarist. Both Leo’s look and sound are reminiscent of Bob Dylan. He played with a band and told stories. The singer and his band stuck around for the rest of the show to support his fellow bill mates.

Andrew Hammond got up next with an electric uke, two band mates, and compelling vocals. Although his first words when he got on stage were “I’m high on Benadryl,” his sickness didn’t seem to affect his impressive vocal range. The way Andrew uses his voice to tell these bittersweet stories in his songs is captivating and makes for a great performance. Jess Best took the evening in a more jazzy, r&b inspired direction. Although she began her set alone on stage with a piano almost as if to introduce us to her soulful, almost sultry voice, her skilled band soon joined her, complete with two back up singers, guitar, bass, keyboard, and drummer. When Jess was joined by her band I couldn’t help but think they should cover No Diggity.

After a break from folkly singer song writers, Ron Gallo brought us right back. Accompanied by a fro that wont quit, a drummer and bassist, he stood out as the artist on the line up with a sense of humor in both his satirical lyrics and crowd banter; he clarified that “Everyday I realize that I look more and more like a microphone.” Although Ron’s very talented on guitar, his playing was complimentary to his voice instead of vice versa. Darling Din, a band sporting two female musicians on guitar and drums and a dude bass player, brought the evening to a close at Arlene’s Grocery. Their sound is soothing and sweet with great builds and easy going riffs. Lisa’s lyrical stylings are magnetic and come with lyrics to match. It’s always both inspiring and empowering to see bands and line ups filled with my fellow females doing their musical thing and killing it. All in all, the show Siren Sounds put together was full of gripping, esteemed music and entertainment.

Article by: Jenna Pinch