NOW PLAYING | Tom Irwin
So many times when benefits and fundraisers look for support in drawing attention to an event, live music is involved. Many times the musicians themselves originate the concept of playing for the proceeds of donations. Through it all, artists usually get the call to give of their talents and time to help out a good cause.
This Saturday evening, from 6 to 10 p.m., you can see a fine example of such an event when The PaperRoute, a new group in town, hosts their own debut show at a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. Often venues contribute to the cause as well, and the good folks at Arlington’s (in the old On Broadway building on the diagonal and very short Broadway Street between Second and Third and Adams and Monroe) offered their upstairs room space for the benefit. I’ve always felt the stage, seating and bar arrangement up there makes that spot one of the best in town for live music, so to me it’s truly wonderful to see the area used for music again. Tickets are $15 in advance (available at Arlington’s), $20 at the door or email [email protected] to preorder. Proceeds will help the local branch of the American Cancer Society fund its 30th annual Relay For Life event on June 13.
Not a bit shy, the group says it’s, “the hottest new musical act in town” and who am I or who are you to deny them such a claim. Inspired by vocalist and saxophonist extraordinaire Shayla Logan, the band is a wonderful collection of local talent. Several members are stalwarts in the area band arena, while others played and studied music elsewhere then returned to invigorate and embellish our music scene. Featuring Sean M. Butler (lead vocals), Chris Warren (bass), Ricky Stone (guitar), Mark McKnight (drums), Darien Orr (keyboards, vocals) and Tombe Kemayo (piano, vocals) along with Shay on Sax, the group plays a collection of “inspirational, motivational and celebratory tunes” in a smooth jazz, soul, funk and R&B style.
The entertainment from 6 to 7 p.m. has bandmates exhibiting original songs with a “light and laid back feel,” to get the good vibes going. Then from 7 to 10 p.m., the full band takes the stage with a “goal to give people a chance to reflect and have a good time through positive, uplifting music,” always a good thing in my book. Also on hand are guest speakers Rachel Ray from Relay for Life and Mike Pratt from the ACS. Photographer Laura Kay Coffey will take professional photos of attendees for an additional donation to the cause. Cancer patients and survivors can receive a portrait photo for free.
In an interesting twist, the band plans to offer a different signature cocktail at each show called “The Front Page” (alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions are available). The ACS benefit drink comes in purple to signify lavender, now recognized as the universal color for all cancers. Portions of the proceeds from these drink sales go into the fundraiser coffers as well.
Congratulations to Shayla (I know she spent lots of time and effort on organizing this event) and the other members of The PaperRoute band for giving of your talent to support such a great cause. Thanks to all at Arlington’s for the help extended. Then, let’s give a special thanks to everyone working toward a cancer-free world. We all know so many affected by the deadly disease. And here’s to folks everywhere, including our music friends, who give freely of time and talent to promote and perform for fundraisers wherever and whenever they may be. Be sure to check our Pub Crawl for the many other music shows going on this weekend.
Contact Tom Irwin at [email protected].