The Song Check Live Event Friday June 9th was one of those evenings that you have to admire. Selling out earlier in the week helped bring hype o something that didn't need any. Everyone was excited about the line up of artists new comers and old to the music scene flocked to 7 degrees Gallery to see up close what these performers were all about. I arrived early to set up my paintings and was greeted by the atmosphere of a truly exciting time. The staff of the event was bustling around putting the final touches on the gallery. Brett Dennen was doing his warm up and own sound check. It was a treat to hear him sing some of his tunes while there was virtually no one there.

As the crowd filled in there was an electrifying performance by Tom Freund. His listless attack of the songs was uplifiting. Alec Bridges was playing at the upstairs stage making his acoustical mastery felt by all. DJ Br3tt was keeping the crowd warm inbetween artists with some appropriate mixes. Throughout the night there was also memorable music from Marianne Keith, Matt Hopper and the Roman Candles, and Ingrid Miachaelson.

Clips from the "Brookledge Theater Sessions Played on the large screens placed throughout the room. I enjoyed some pork with gorgonzola cheese, red mashed potatoes, filet mignon stew and cold drinks. The mood was only heightened by a few select pieces of art by myself and Jesse Miller.

Alec Bridges

The crowd.

the lady and I.


I spoke with Matt Russell, the creator of Song Check Live, and the Promoter of the event about what the future holds.

Nathan: What do you think went well Matt?

Matt: Well the artists had a fantastic time playing with eachother. It created a very good vibe during the show and that always helps. When the artists have a good time then the audience does as well.

Nathan: It did appear the audience had a great time. The clips of the Brookledge Sessions was a nice touch.

Matt: Yes, 7 Degrees seemed to be the only place in the area that could support a concert and showing the video at the same time.

Nathan: What was difficult about the event?

Matt: Well with a 1st premier show obviously the costs were high. Production costs, artists fees, and the venue all add up. But I think people got their monies worth. And it was for a good cause.

Nathan: Yes, the Mosiac project! How did they do?

Matt: Well we got them a lot of press, and we raised some money for them as well.

Nathan: What about things in the future for Song Check Live?

Matt: Well I have some fantastic things lpanned, but nothing I am ready to put out there to the public. I am not one to throw things out there just to get attention, but yes there are events in the works. I am looking into doing a larger festival, more artists, and cheaper ticket prices.

Nathan: People love cheap tickets to great events!

Matt: Yea...

Nathan: Thanks Matt for allowing me to show my art at the event I had a lot of good comments.

Matt: No problem, we want to do even more next time.

Nathan: Any final thoughts?

Matt: I felt honored to put on an event with such a group of high caliber of artists that have such talent. Please check Song Check Live's Website for more videos, revamped media, and upcoming information.

You can also contact Matt Russell at matt@songchecklive.com

Photos of the event can also be seen at:

944 Magazine:

*AM Music Blog