Megan Callahan: News

Hi All!

Been a LONG time since there's been a post from me. I've been crazy busy with Give for Greatness (http://www.giveforgreatness.org) which I became Executive Director of back in mid-june 2011. I've played a few gigs but haven't been good about my gig calendar and that all changes now. Join me New Years if you don't have plans at Nietzsches, where I'll be playing with The Albrights, Aqueous, The Andrew J. Reimers Country Punk Extravaganza and Erie Lackawana Railroad. Here's a video a friend took of an open mic I happened in upon and was asked to get up and play a few tunes. This is a newer song and one that will be on the long awaited next album, which I intend to record this winter. Happy holidays and hope to see you at a gig soon!- Megan :)

 

Happy Holidays all!

 

Below find a link for a rough cut video that award winning film-maker Ragnar Friedank did this summer, used my  song Catskill for this workshop he was offering in the Hudson Valley. The strange thing is, he used the song without knowing (UNTIL AFTER) that I wrote Catskill IN THAT HOUSE! How weird and wonderful. Ragnar and I have been talking about making a full video for awhile, so hopefully this is the year. Enjoy! http://www.vimeo.com/12338345

So I just did three plays in a row, "Engaged" at Irish Classical Theater, an all female version of "Macbeth" at Shakespeare in Delaware Park and then just directed a powerful piece about coal miners in appalachia entitled "The Furies of Mother Jones." There has hardly been time to breathe, but somehow during that an almost all lady ensemble of killer musicians has assembled, aka Foxangelica. The groove at Jack Devine's is coming up on it's first birthday, and there are lots of great things in the works. Check the calendar page for Foxangelica's upcoming gigs. This new lineup features Emily Gaines, Eva Tashjan, Emily Elkin, Hanna Lipkind, Lisa Sperry and others! I promise to be better about keeping you all posted as to what is going on! Hugs from Ireland.

So as you may have heard, or seen if you've caught a show recently, I finally have a band- yay! Emily Gaines on djembe, Carl Armstrong on lead guitar, and Roger Draper on upright bass. We have been rehearsing and having a blast, and all of them sing, so there might be quadruple harmony heaven coming down the pike! But, we have no name yet... ideas or suggestions? send them to me at megan@megancallahan.com.

Come see us in action to help get some ideas! Playing at Comfort Zone Cafe in Hamburg, NY tonight, and Jack Devine's every tuesday.... check the calendar page for deets.

Also, had a great meeting with Christine and Jane yesterday about lots of outreach and teaming up with environmental and other groups whose causes we support to raise money and awareness! Send feedback for that too!

Hugs,
Megan

I have a new band folks! I am excited to announce Carl Armstrong on guitar, Emily Gaines on djembe, and Roger Draper on upright bass. Come check out the new ensemble this friday 3/5 at http://www.mergebuffalo.com. Then we play saturday as part of Shakti Yoga's Lounge series. Money raised on saturday will go to benefit the Priscilla Project, which helps pregnant refugee women. Happy early spring!

Watch Megan perform "I'll Get By" from her EP "Since the Fire" live from Dublin, as part of http://www.balconytv.com. "It was a blast!" says Megan. "A bit cold, as Ireland is having their coldest winter in 40 years!" Megan promised to bring the Buffalo style winter back home with her...

I am in beautiful rural vermont, just outside Montpelier, spending some much needed time to reflect, write new songs, and wind down the rest of 2009. I just recorded my first home video for youtube, one of my favorite carols form childhood "The Cherry Tree Carol." Check it out! Lots more where that came from. Hope you are keeping warm wherever you are.
http://www.youtube.com/MeganCallahanChannel

So last minute, due to the modern wonder of social networking, I got to play a wonderful show at a new Art Gallery right in my own hometown. First show I've played there since the album came out! I had friends there from all phases of my life, from middle school, high school, college, grad school, detroit and buffalo! Vic Lazar played a set break and then several songs with me in the second set- blasty mc blast! It was so fun they asked me to do it again, so between christmas and new years if you are in the area stay tuned. In February I've been asked to play at the 10th anniversary celebration of the Berrie Center for Performing Arts at my alma mater Ramapo College. So lots of Jersey goodness in the months ahead!

Bales Clothing presents "The Show" a Fashion Show featuring several designers at Ani DiFranco's famous venue "The Church." Don't miss this party!

$10 single tickets $15 VIP
Dress Attire: Young Hollywood
Asbury Hall, Babeville
341 Delaware Ave. Buffalo NY 14202
Doors open 5:15pm

Dress Attire: Young Hollywood

Featured Designers:Benjamin Oladele, Truth Roars, Tanisha Harris, B. Turner Designs & Holly Hue

Live Performances by:
Megan Callahan, Moriah Kelly, Aalia Rasool

For more information, phone: 917-612-0750.
email: balesclothing@live.com

Just had an awesome dinner meeting with my booking/tour manager Gabrielle. We have lots of ideas and exciting things coming up this fall. Re-booked at Merge, maybe some charity events, hopefully lots of touring. Stay tuned!

So I started a blog in May, have been sporadic about it, but third installment this eve... check it out if you have time!

http://allthatspossible.blogspot.com/
Peace,
Megan

Read below, and here's link to Michael Canter of Sonic Jive and Live Wired's review of "Since the Fire." http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.viewcustom&friendId=364161657&blogId=502393459&swapped=true
Since The Fire, the first independently produced full-length album from Megan Callahan is a masterful gem beaming with a number of feel-good hits. If she had a mission statement, Megan would probably say it is to write songs that celebrate life's ups as well as it's occasional downs. Not saccharine or forcefully idealistic, the music here is instead joyous, alluring and effervescent. The dulcet melodies, sublime vocals and unassuming lyrics speak volumes; they are neither manipulative nor overstated. When Megan sings "I've got a soundtrack in my head today, a little Stevie Wonder and some Stevie Ray" on the single "Happy Song", it is easy to visualize that sense of optimistic jubilation. There's no moral or story here, just genuine happiness. It's that sincerity that makes this CD so good.

That being said, Megan is cognizant to present her message with a sense of intimacy throughout the album. Combining elements of bluesy-rock, alt-folk and jazz, the album is not entirely solo, but the instrumentation is so sparingly added to Megan's vocals, (cajon drums, guitar, bass, violin) that it may as well be. This puts most of the focus on Megan's dusky vocals, and it works well; the CD is very reminiscent of the VH-1 "Unplugged" series except for the fact that it is studio recorded. It's that cozy. Megan's vocals are strong when necessary and understated for effect when needed; the production and musical arrangements are laid-back and perfectly polished. Musically, Megan and her band are capable of appealing to anyone who has been charmed by Sara Bareilles or Natasha Bedingfield

The album opens with the song "Catskill", an innocent charmer that immediately grabs your attention, a rustic alt-hipster piece that has a sophisticated ear for both harmony and counterpoint. Perhaps reminiscent of Joni Mitchell, this song alternately flirts with hints of folk, blues and jazz while remaining untethered to any one specific convention. "Song For You" is a wonderful follow-up and Megan shines vocally here, remaining crystal clear and pitch-perfect yet vocally flexible. There is no naivety here, independent production not withstanding. Both songs are intricate and hauntingly beautiful, carefully and complexly composed but wholly natural to effortlessly satisfying effect.

"I'll Get By" offers a slight shift in speed and though the mood is slightly more remorse, it doesn't impede the feel or rhythm of the CD. The violin solo works well here too, and the music is upbeat enough to keep from making the song too melancholy, though it does have a familiar west coast/alt-country flavor along the lines of Bonnie Raitt.
Aside from the stellar first three tracks, other highlights include "Happy Song", "Copout" and "The Battle". "So Into You" is a longing, slow-burning song that in its ennui fails to restrain its contradictory sexually-charged feel. The theme is not nearly as innocent as its lyrics conveys. It is a standout song and my personal favorite.

"Since The Fire" is a first-rate CD and worth purchasing. There is a lot to like about it and it's strength lies in Megan's vocal abilities. Even at the high end of her range she maintains a purring edge, capable of being sweet and sultry at the same time. The disc definitely sets or perpetuates a mood, but there is enough melodic diversity overall to keep things interesting while maintaining its intimacy. Her backing band is skilled and a perfect accompaniment, and "Since The Fire" would be a great addition to your CD collection.

I am thrilled to announce I'll be playing in Buffalo's legendary Elmwood Festival of the Arts this year. Celebrating 10 years!
http://www.elmwoodartfest.org/ Last year I was in Ireland while it was going on... so this will be my first one! I hear it's an amazing time, so if you are anywhere near the Buff, come check it out. :-)

August 18 will be one year since the release of "Since the Fire," and I was here in vermont last summer organizing it going to press and the europe tour... what a great treat to be back here directing at Lost Nation Theater, and playing in Burlington July 9, at the Skinny Pancake right on lake Champlain,
http://www.skinnypancake.com/proddir/prod/281/159 and then Montpelier on August 12 at great bar Charlie O's. Both shows are currently solo, but I have some musicians I've met locally I might be collaborating with... stayed tuned! Maybe even a guest appearance on harmonica from one of my actors in Deathtrap, who is wicked on that mouth-harp... :-)

I am in Vermont at the moment, directing at play at Lost Nation Theater company... Ira Levin's comic thriller "Deathtrap." Previews tomorrow, so if you're in the area, or up for a roadtrip come check it out. http://www.lostnationtheater.org I've been up to my ears in directing, but have been writing some new songs while looking at the mountains and the astounding view I wake up to each day. It really felt like summer was here today. I am lining up shows in various places throughout the summer, so check the calendar frequently for updates, and let me know if you want me to come play your city!
Happy Summer!

Last night I was grateful that Jason of Monkey and the Rat didnt tell me until after I finished playing that Peter Yarrow (of Peter, Paul and Mary) had played right where I was standing just 3 weeks before! (my mom would be so delighted if i could have teleported her from jersey, as passionate about folk as she has always been.) Passionate about the folk... nice thing for us all to aspire to maybe? :-) It has been grand here so far, Monkey and the Rat was an intimate and eclectic space, and the new Davis Street Tavern has an amazing vibe and wondeful food. Today Brian and I will be hopping around Portland, and then I'm having a mini-rehearsal with a few special guests for tonight's shows! Happy spring and thanks to all those who have been helping me get the word out there. :-)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
MEGAN CALLAHAN TO BE WELCOMED TO PORTLAND
ON HER NORTHWEST TOUR.
Thursday, April 9th, 2009
6pm The Monkey and The Rat, 131 NW Second Avenue
8:30pm Davis Street Tavern, 500 NW Davis Street
Friday, April 10th, 2009
6pm-7:30pm Awakenings Wellness Center, 1016 SE 12th Ave $5 suggested
9pm Good Neighbor Pizza, 800 NE Dekum St, Portland Oregon.

Portland, Oregon – April 9th and 10th – Megan Callahan will descend on Portland this Thursday and Friday! All details are available at MeganCallahan.com. Megan is thrilled to be visiting one of her favorite cities and to be able to perform at four establishments that should really fit her personality. Megan has many influences, and she is excited to be coming to visit Portland and perform at a unique store, a cool new tavern, a wellness studio and a sustainable pizzeria!

"Sweet and uplifting," "Profound Voice," "Compelling," "Fresh and original,” Poignant lyrics," – Lindsay Berman, Artvoice Buffalo. "An earthy, ethereal sound that you will want to play again and again..." Tina Waters- Fotografia, Buffalo. Combining folk, rock and soul, Megan's songs are stories of loss, triumph and wandering. She plays with nuance and dynamics and a deep reverence and understanding of music's transcendent power. Based out of Buffalo NY, Megan has toured abroad, where she debuted her independent release "Since the Fire.” A self-proclaimed gypsy, Megan Callahan has played with Mary Ramsey of "John and Mary" and "10,000 Maniacs," Jeremy Wall of "Spyro Gyra," and many others. Come listen to original music as well as beautifully interpreted and powerful covers.

Megan’s music is available on Amie Street (http://amiestreet.com/music/megan-callahan/?fms=4sv9X1MVRdgx ), a website designed to help promote independent musicians. Her album "Since the Fire" has been available on itunes (http://itunes.com/megancallahan ) since September so you can download your favorite songs or design her music into a ring tone. If you are craving that hard copy you can also purchase her work on CD BABY (http://cdbaby.com/cd/megancallahan )! She has been featured on WBNY NY, on Alooga, hosted by DJ Ottic of Germoany, Harmony ridge on NPR California, KVMR in Nevada and KRBS Oroville.

Thursday, April 9th, 2009 Megan will be performing at The Monkey and The Rat (http://www.themonkeyandtherat.com/ ) located at 131 NW Second Avenue at 6 pm and heading over to Davis Street Tavern (http://davisstreettavern.com/ ) 500 NW Davis Street at 8:30 pm. On Friday, April 10th, 2009 from 6pm-7:30pm Megan will be performing at Awakenings Wellness Center (http://awakeningswellnesscenter.com ) 1016 SE 12th Ave.-$5 suggested donation. Finally, Megan will head north for Portland’s best garlic knots and sing you goodnight at 9pm at Good Neighbor Pizza (http://www.goodneighborpizzeria.com/ ) 800 NE Dekum St, Portland Oregon.

For additional information about Megan Callahan, her music or future tours
or bookings please contact: bookings@MeganCallahan.com
go to http://www.myspacecom/MeganCallahanMusic & http://www.megancallahan.com/ # # #

Three full nights out but I'm already buzzing...
Northwest calling to me full on. Need all that green, both in people and place and eco-consciousness.
Ready to share and receive; revive and jive.
Come make some music with me ecotopia.
This faerie can't wait for mountains, the falls and the sound of puget.

Hi All,

Here's a link to stream a show I did recently called the Fantastic Four... hosted by the very talented Rob Falgiano, also with Dee Adams and Scott Celani. Beware the corny jokes! :-) But good old fashioned song circles are rare these days, so enjoy! Rob's been running this thing for four straight years!

http://www.thinktwiceradio.com/falgiano/falgiano.html

Hi everyone,

I haven't written an update in a bit. I've been busy here in Buffalo and also planning for an exciting mini tour to Portland and Seattle April 8 to 14. Working hard to book some venues, so if it's where you hail from, drop a line! I'll let you know where we end up booking, a few done, more in the works. Also, plans for a tee shirt with that beautiful graphic David Moore designed are underway. What have you been up to?

Hi everybody!

Hope you are all having an awesome 2009 so far, or are gearing up for one that lies ahead. So first of all I'd like to formally introduce you to Jane and Jennifer who are now helping me. Jane is doing wonderful webmastery and communications stuff, and Jennifer is now my publicist and booking agent. Yay Jane and Jennifer! Their help is essential to me right now as I am already working on material for another album down the road, and continually exploring those songs that are already written, but are never finished.

K. Now, some may be wondering, "Wait... Why a CD release party? Is there a new one?" Although "Since the Fire" was released8/18/08 and had its debut abroad in Ireland, the UK and France,and I've played a few shows now back on stateside soil... there has yetto be a a formal "CD release shindig." So when Buffalo's acclaimed Irish Classical Theatre Company approached me about doing a combination night of Music and Theater, I was really psyched! And Martin Cameron-Safford, AMAZING virtuoso violinist, who is featured on "Since the Fire" will be playing with me.Check out the calendars for more information- you don't want to miss this one!

The event is this Friday (January 23rd) starting at 5:30 pm, and it is a double bill: 20/20/20 at the Irish Classical Theatre and Megan Callahan CD Release Party including poster and CD signings- (Posters are now for sale... if you haven't seen the work David Moore did, well... just wait. It took my breath away when I saw it!) - with cuts from the album, some reinterpreted covers , snacks, cash bar and a ticket to Eugene O'Neill's uplifting play "Ah, Wilderness!" And it only costs $20 (half of what tickets to a show can typically cost), which during these hard times,is a GOOD DEAL. I'd love to see you at ICTC's newly remodeled Chris O'Neill Lounge (625 Main Street) if you are in the area, and if you can't come or are far away, drop a line when you get a chance.Big big hugs!

PS. For more info on the CD Release Party, please check out:
ICTC 20.20.20 online at http://www.irishclassicaltheatre.com/special-events.php

Hi Everyone!

So I'll be donating $1.50 of every CD purchase made online or at shows, or at retailers in Buffalo to the Foodbank of WNY. Also, via my friend Marcus, of Mindweb.us I've been invited to participate in an artist's market for the holiday season. "Since the Fire" will on sale, and I'll also be playing there probably twice! It's 464 Amherst, (Left of Elmwood and it's past Wegeman's.)

So if you haven't bought your cd yet, now's the time! And amiestreet.com still has my tracks for super cheap if budget's a problem. Be the first to go there and you can get the whole album for a song! :-) Or 11 that is...

Peace,
Megan

Cd's are great stocking stuffers! Help support independent musicians and buy a copy of their albums as gifts for friends. Spread Art!

I just uploaded a video to youtube of Avi and I at our show in Galway, Ireland at the legendary Roisin Dubh. Photos from the tour are finally coming too!

Beautiful Fall in Buffalo

So it's a beautiful fall day here in Buffalo, NY. The weather is warm, but pumpkins are out, lawns are beautifully speckled with the more eager leaves, and I can hear the little girls out in the yard next door. I'm sitting on the couch after a long and wonderful day.


This morning I played a benefit concert for the Buffalo chapter of the Breast Cancer Network. www.breastcancernetwork.org "Since the Fire" will be on sale at Brighton Collectibles, the store that sponsored the event, at the Walden Galleria Mall throughout the next month. And $5 of each CD purchased there will go directly to the Breast Cancer Network. Inspired me and reminded me, that this is something I can do all the time. When I play shows now, $2 of each CD sale will go towards rotating charities and causes. Stay posted!



Also, here's a link to a video on youtube that was uploaded by the "Zodiac Sessions" of Bruxelle's in Dublin. Hope you like it! Thanks Brian and Jazz!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8D0PXhPmu-c

"Since the Fire" is also now available on amazon.com as well!


More updates soon. Enjoy the fall!


Love,

Megan