For those of you werent one of the 15,750+ facebook members who got the video link below into your newsfeed this past weekend (It just hit mine today) you're in for a treat! Its a P-R-E-T-T-Y awesome cover of Hall and Oates "I Cant go for That" tune from San Francisco's Nicki Blum and The Gramblers....recorded in their VAN!!
Appropriately dubbed "The Van sessions", the tune is part of a compilation of covers the band recorded on the road last summer while touring cross-country. The 16 video playlist includes classic favorites from bands like The Allman Brothers, The Grateful Dead, Linda Ronstadt and James Taylor.
As everyone knows, the true test of how talented a singer is to hear them live on stage. Well, they pass with flying colors. These recordings are one step better (in my book) because all the tracks are completely unfiltered. Hell, you can even hear the 'white noise' of the highway in the background! It totally reminds me of the slight "hiss" you hear when listening to music on vinyl. Who doesnt love that? As I listened thru the sessions and other live recordings (the duet, "Unforgetaboutable" is a fave.) I could totally see myself getting addicted to her laid back, folky, 70s songstress voice. Fabulous voice PLUS great vintage style? (think Jane Birkin or Allie McGraw) - This gal is the complete package!
Cher
Nicki
Nicki
Doesnt she look EXACTLY like a young Cher from the 70s?
Currently on tour, Nicki and the gang will be comin thru the Los Angeles area next month on the 20th at The Hotel Cafe. Pre-sale tickets are just $12 bucks and you can purchase them online.
1623 1/2 North Cahuenga Boulevard - Los Angeles, CA
Fans can keep up to date thru their social networks (listed below) and the band newsletter. Members who subscribe to the mailing list will get a FREE Mp3 of the song "Carousel" from their latest CD, Driftwood available now on itunes
