Apr21

Michael Kelsey, Edgar Cruz & Antsy McClain

The Blue Door, 2805 N McKinley Ave, Oklahoma City, OK www.bluedoorokc.com/

405-524-0738 Info $20 Michael Kelsey brings a free-flowing improvisational style to the guitar that involves every inch of his instrument. From his funky, percussive playing style that conjures an image of a one-man version of STOMP to lush instrumentals reminiscent of Michael Hedges/Phil Keaggy, his performance blends multiple musical genres and vocals along with some techno fun to create a sound all his own. He is the winner of Guitar Center’s “Guitarmageddon”. Chosen from among 3,000 entrants the singer-songwriter performed at Eric Clapton’s Crossroads 2004 where he shared the stage with many legendary guitarists. Through out a performance Michael may make use of technology, his improv skills, objects in the room, and audience interaction to make music for the ears but more importantly a musical experience for the senses.www.michaelkelsey.com

Antsy McClain brings his unique blend of music and “humor with heart” to the stage, combining his original songs with a hilarious slide show, including Antsy’s own life observations, social commentary and imaginary sponsors from his home town trailer park of Pine View Heights. As a master storyteller with the likes of PBS, NPR and TEDTalks under his belt, Antsy includes humorous and serious songs in his shows. Songs such as “One Less Trailer Here in Pine View Heights,” My Baby Whistles When She Walks,” and “The Junk Drawer of Your Heart,” are keenly humorous observations about love and loss, while his more serious songs, like “Field Trip,” “I’m Everyone,” or “Falling in Love in America,” are more akin to personal journal entries written in the act of living. It’s this tightrope walk between humor and heart that makes Antsy McClain a true original.Antsy McClain’s newest album (his 18th), “Somewhere Past These Gravel Roads,” is a collection of songs inspired by Antsy’s roots in 1970’s and ’80’s guitar rock, and chronicles a period of great change in the artists’ life. It takes the listener on a journey that touches upon life’s darker edges but ends with the happiness of new-found love and the soul-stretching exuberance of self discovery.Antsy McClain is one of those rare performers who can have you laughing hysterically and shedding a tear – often within the same song. In the last few years, McClain has been playing a lot of solo acoustic shows, but still plays with his band, The Trailer Park Troubadours, who bring their masterful touch to his live shows. Whether alone with his guitar, or with a group of other musicians, Antsy McClain creates an unforgettable night of music, theater and storytelling. Others have called him “a national treasure” (Modesto Bee), and “a creative force whose roots lie in songwriters like John Prine, Kris Kristofferson and Guy Clark” (Houston Chronicle), and “a happier, funnier Bob Dylan.” (his Uncle Fred). Whoever you think his influences might be, you will likely think of him as a friend after attending one of his concerts, due to his casual, approachable presentation and the relatable nature of his songs. Visit www.unhitched.com

Virtuoso guitarist Edgar Cruz has performed professionally for over four decades and has played throughout America, Europe, Mexico and South America. He has been a headliner at the prestigious Chet Atkins Guitar Festival every July in Nashville since 1995 and has been a strong icon at major art & music festivals in his home state of Oklahoma since the late 70's. Those who have witnessed Cruz’s performance immediately become entranced at the precision, speed and complexity with which his fingers strike the strings of his guitar to create a symphony of sound unusual to just one instrument. Cruz offers an incredible versatile repertoire and show with selections like “Malagueña,” “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Classical Gas,” “Dueling Banjos,” “Hotel California,” classical, Beatles, original and Latin favorites. Audience interaction, participation, clapping, singing, dancing and “OLE's” are all encouraged. Edgar celebrates Twenty-five years of recording with eighteen CDs covering a multitude of genres and an Emmy Award winning instructional DVD.He has acquired millions of hits and grateful comments on You Tube.“Great Job Maestro!!!” - Enrique Madriguera, UT Dallas (Edgar has performed for Enrique 7 times)“Can't say enough positives about your performance and beautiful connection with the audience. What a spectacular impression! You are one of the most talked-about artists of the weekend!”Blessings, Joe Tilton - Charlie Christian Festival. 5/14/14 more details» copy to my calendar Monday, April 22