Getting a little cabin fever lately? Need a break from the NFL before the Super Bowl? Then come on down to the Groovin’ Coffee House for a great evening of kickin’ back with friends and hearing some great music in a listening room atmosphere. We’ve booked 3, count ‘em, 3 great acts, which highlight the creativity of the singer/songwriter along with some well-crafted “cover” interpretations of recognizable songs from artists we’ve all grown to love. With not far to travel, this makes for a “low pressure” evening of awesome entertainment, practically in your backyard.
As is part of our mission to encourage and support local artists, we open the night with keyboardist and songwriter, George Mallas, from just over the border in North Salem, NY. Starting piano lessons at the formative age of 6, George has continued his connection to the keyboard as a means of immersing himself in the ever changing music of popular culture as well as a method of expressing himself in how he personally has experienced the world, though life’s trials and celebrations, love and family. Expect to hear tunes from his most recently released CD, Unscathed (2018). George also hosts Pawling Public Radio’s “The Songwriter’s Block” (with Melanie Berti) every Wednesday evening, streaming on www.thebeatofthevalley.com, which celebrates singer/songwriters of the region.
Next up, the exuberant singer/songwriter, Julie Corbalis. With an infectious smile that might outshine the stage lighting, Jules is just such an engaging presence…she connects so well to her audience. Whether treating us to an original tune from one of her 5 CDs or an interpretation of a favorite cover, Ms. Corbalis delivers. Either accompanying herself on guitar, performing as a duo or trio, even being recruited for backing vocals, Jules is a well -known participant in the greater Hudson Valley folk community. She has also opened for the likes of Colin Hay (Men at Work) Jeffrey Gains, Johnny Irion and Sarah Lee Guthrie. She’s performed at the Brooklyn Bowl, The Hudson Clearwater Revival, Towne Crier and the Pleasantville Music festival.
Closing the night will be frontwoman Andrea Ekizian of Andrea and the Armenian Rug Riders, the very popular rock cover band from Westchester. The band is known for their high-spirited performances covering songs from groups like the Beatles, the Pretenders and Led Zeppelin, and as you might expect, getting people up and on the dance floor. That said, this is Andrea’s opportunity to strut her stuff in front of an audience who’ll attentively listen to her acoustic interpretations of pop/rockclassics. She will be backed by a members of her band, John Scavelli (guitar) and Brett Roberts (percussion). The Armenian Rug Riders have an avid following along their typical Hudson Valley circuit, so we are psyched to be witness to this acoustic incarnation. www.andrr.com
And why not get there a little early (doors open at 6:45pm) and enjoy some meal worthy refreshments for a more than generous price. Check out the night’s menu, as well as other information about the show, on our website at www.groovininnewfairfield.com Tickets are just $10. Hope to see you at there!
By Jeff Main