The Tralf in downtown Buffalo was the site for an eclectic mix of talents on October 4th for the CD release party for the Cosmic Stepping Stones new self titled CD.

First up on the bill was the very talented singer songwriter Davey O. playing selections from both his CD’s and some from his soon to be released disc. Playing alone on stage with just an acoustic guitar and the spotlights glare, Davey O turned in a six-song set of dynamic music. Opening with “Rubies” from his upcoming release “The Emotional Shelter”, the set included nice renditions of “Cracks”, “Safety Net” and “Harder To Get Out”. For his encore he played a very nice version of Peter Gabriel’s “In Your Eyes”.

Up next were the diverse sounds of the band Emery Nash. Using a mix of violins, mandolins, acoustic guitars, complex bass rhythm and a drum kit sans snare and with a conga in its place they at times achieved a sound akin to Little Feat. The interesting mix of instruments and arrangements made for some challenging yet highly rewarding listening.

Headliners Cosmic Stepping Stones showed they are ready for the big time. The band plays a rock/alternative-based sound with some jazz underpinnings; this is most evident on the guitar work of Joe Pinnavaia. His use of textures, tapping, layering, effects and delays on his guitar was a treat all evening. His sister Leah has a ready to rock voice in the seven-octave range. Never overpowering the songs she is amply complimented by Jessica Schriber on background vocals.

Starting their eighteen-song set with the song “Mediocrity” from the new CD, they took us for a musical journey of songs from the new CD and some covers. The crowd of family, friends and lovers of good music enjoyed the highly polished sound of this up and coming band. Highlights of the set included “Graceful”, “Blame”, “Somewhere To Fall” and “Laughter”. They also covered Prince’s “When Doves Cry” which allowed Schriber to show off her pipes and an incredible version of the Beatles’ “Oh Darling” on which Leah gave an incredible vocal workout.

For more information on these diverse local artists go to www.cosmicsteppingstones.com
www.daveyomusic.freehosting.net 
www.emerynash.com