WLSC2008 Journal | Night #4: Rose Live Music 11.18.08

Photo by Jen McManus

It’s official. The 2nd Round of the WLSC2008 is halfway over. 12 contestants have been chosen to perform in the Finals at Public Assembly on Friday, another step closer to the grand ole $4,000 first place prize. But no, it’s not easy to get there! Last night at the super cozy Rose Live Music on Grand Street the competition was thicker than ever…

Lara Ewen began the night with a heartfelt, soulful performance. Jessi Robertson showcased her vocal and lyrical prominence in a solidly written song. M Lamar grabbed the attention of the entire audience with operatic vocals, dissonant piano chords, and the lyrics “we drink the pussy like it’s the finest champagne.” Michael Patrick Flanagan Smith put on a great, high energy performance, every ounce from the heart. WLSC2007 Finalist Sean Rowe has a simply incredible, deep voice, seemingly coming from a place altogether elsewhere. Justin D’Onofrio shared with us a solidly composed, slow, fragile song. Morgan Grace (coming all the way from Portland, Oregon) performed a damn catchy pop rock song (“he was gonna be my valentine / he was gonna be mine”) on electric guitar. Jarrod Champion sat behind the keys and hammered home an upbeat swaying ballad driven by standout vocals and a memorable chorus. Kelli Rae Powell brought some of the night’s best lyrics (and performance) with a song about wanting to drive and not look back, staying on the road forever.

If a meteor were to have collided with Rose Live last night, local songwriters everywhere would feel the loss of all the great talent. The esteemed judges had their work cut out for them to select three winners: Cedric Lamar brought serious rock/soul to the stage. His powerful voice, energetic performance, and excellent song (breaking down into a second part towards the end featuring the standout lyrics “there’s a red barn in Harlem”) won him a slot at the Semi-Finals. Julz A is a natural performer: equipped with an accordion, rap verses, and melodic choruses, this unique talent comes one step closer to the Finals. Jesse Lee held the stage in his hands from start to finish, plowing through his uniquely penned song with natural presence and incredibly solid vocals.

Which six remaining performers will move on? Come to Matchless tonight (Wednesday, November 19) to find out half the answer, as three more Semi-Final slots will be filled. And if you happen to be a fan of live performances by the most talented independent songwriters around, consider it a date: Wednesday November 19, Bar Matchless in Greenpoint, 8pm. See you there!

Go here to see photos by Jen McManus from Rose Live!