My dad is still hanging in there. He is surrounded by my Texas family and the hospice worker who comes to my brother's home says he can hear them so they are lavishing him with praise and positive words. It should only be a few more days.
I'm feeling positive about it -- we all have to go sometime -- but I still feel this emptiness or sadness or something lingering and it's keeping me from being all that productive. My dreams are weird and disturbing, but this too shall pass.
Meanwhile, I promised you the reviews of my show! I've provided the links below but here is a summary.
And here is some footage taken by Magda Katz.
FOOTAGE:
https://t2conline.com/steve-schalchlin-a-genre-bending-night-of-music-combining-cabaret-heart-with-beatles-harmonySteve Schalchlin's recent performance at Don't Tell Mama was met with enthusiastic and nuanced praise from multiple critics. Bart Greenberg captured the essence of the show, describing it as a "very satisfying evening" that successfully blended diverse musical genres through Schalchlin's remarkable "charm, charisma and enormous talent." Despite the potential challenges of mixing styles from country-western to punk rock, the performance maintained a cohesive and engaging quality that delighted audience members.
The songwriting emerged as a particular highlight of the evening. Alix Cohen noted Schalchlin's ability to transform various experiences into compelling musical narratives, praising his versatility in creating songs that could be "wry, tender, observant, or... rockabilly fun." Critics were especially impressed by specific tracks like "I Only See You Young," which was described as "a ballad for the ages," and "Someone to Get Groceries With," a charming piece that captured the universal desire for companionship.
Guest performers played a significant role in the show's success. Blake Zolfo, Sidney Myer, and Natalie Douglas were singled out for their exceptional contributions. Zolfo's performance of "My New York Life" and his co-written "Someone to Get Groceries With" were particularly praised, while Sidney Myer's comedic delivery in "Vacationing in Syria" drew special mention for its unique and entertaining approach.
The Bonus Round Band provided exceptional musical support, with Charlie Viehl's violin work receiving special recognition. The band's ability to navigate multiple genres - from folk to punk - demonstrated the group's musical versatility. While one review suggested some potential for editing, the overall consensus was overwhelmingly positive, highlighting Schalchlin's impressive songwriting and the show's warm, collaborative spirit.
Ultimately, the reviews painted a picture of a multifaceted musical experience that showcased Schalchlin's talents as both a songwriter and performer. From romantic ballads to comedic numbers, the show offered a rich tapestry of musical storytelling that left critics and audiences alike thoroughly entertained and impressed.
https://nitelifeexchange.com/the-multi-varied-universe-of-steve-schalchlin-entertained-brightly-at-dont-tell-mama/https://www.womanaroundtown.com/sections/playing-around/steve-schalchlin-and-the-bonus-round-band/https://www.broadwayworld.com/cabaret/article/Review-STEVE-SCHALCHLIN-AND-FRIENDS-Shines-at-Dont-Tell-Mama-20250313If I didn't know me, I'd go see that guy!
