WLSC2008 Journal | Night #5: Matchless 11.19.08

Photo by Jen McManus

So much talent. So little time! Tonight at Matchless, three more contestants (pictured, left to right) – Stacy Rock, Rosi Golan, and Misty Boyce – advanced to the Semi-Finals of the WLSC2008, to take place this Friday at Public Assembly.

With so much talent in the showroom at Matchless, it’s not surprise the unheated venue warmed up in no time. Rick Snyder and his electric guitar went “back to Burlington, where the snow makes sense” in a deep-thinking, rocking ballad. Lizzy Grant can sing like a bird can fly – even accidentally turned-on cell phones kept quiet for Lizzy’s sultry song. Tom Curtin played the catchiest song I’ve ever heard about an eye doctor. Michael Romano took us to Tannersville, in a warm, exceptionally finger-picked and projectedly-sung neo-folk song. Seth Woods (hailing from Austin, TX and sleeping on a do-gooder’s couch) relied on only his sturdily-strummed acoustic and strongly-sung words to get the audience on his good side. Lisa Jaeggi’s fresh blend of folk and hip-hop won her many a new fan. If you don’t already know, or missed his song, Jeff Jacobson is one of the finest guitarists, singers, and performers in NYC – now you know! Tam Lin took us on a lyrical trip, accented by solid guitar playing, strong melodies, and top-notch vocal delivery.

For all the right reasons, Paul Basile (pronounced “basil”) was a crowd favorite. His song, “Further North,” is a slow ballad about frustration, exasperation, and wanting to escape from the emotional burdens of life. A very strong and emotive vocalist with a signature voice, Paul performed rather brilliantly, leading many to believe he’d be called up onstage at the end of the evening.

Misty Boyce, an excellent vocalist and pianist, sang one of the more emotional and honest songs of the evening: a warning to stay away from a character who lies and cheats and gets satisfaction from doing whatever it takes to get what she wants. She’s “tro-tro-tro-trouble.” Rosi Golan is a songwriter extraordinaire. If you hate having songs stuck in your head, don’t listen to Rosi, because this songster expertly combines chords and melodies into competition-winning compositions. Stacy Rock’s vocals are solid as… you guessed it… a rock. From behind the keys, Stacy soared and roared her way across her well-composed pop/rock song. She rocked!

Guess what? Only one more night to go in the 2nd Round! After tonight at Royal Oak on Union Ave, all 18 Semi-Finalists will be secured, and ready to perform on Friday night for a slot in the Finals! See you tonight!

All images copyright Jen McManus 2008