Take four award-winning singer-songwriter-musicians; mix in jazz, blues, folk and pop tunes with creative lyrics; blend in strong voices and sweet harmonies; stir it up with high energy; and you?ll have a Baltimore favorite, The Art of Meaning. The band?s leader, Paul Iwancio, will celebrate his birthday during a special concert at The Cellar Stage in Baltimore.
The band?s first CD, “Live Art!” is a celebration of acousticsong craft at its very best. Iwancio, the founder of the Baltimore Songwriters Association, has a fine voice, jubilant style and boundless energy, and is often compared with John Denver. His original lyrics are a challenge to explore deeper issues.
“I live for those moments when music gives me goose bumps, and that?s what happens when the Art of Meaning performs,” says Iwancio. “We?re like Ben and Jerry?s ice cream ? tasty and cool with a conscience.”
Paul?s partner, jazz vocalist Nita Paul, has an amazing voice that surges and swells on the lovely “Tradewinds of My Dreams” and scats and sizzles on “Two Days Behind.” Her original compositions start out with gentle ripples and then spin into musical whirlpools that will take your breath away.
John Seay was invited to perform at the Kerrville Folk Festival this year by Paul Stookey of Peter, Paul & Mary. The huge festival audience sang along with John?s thought-provoking “Think Third World.” He is the folk music artist of the group, contributing smooth vocals, superb guitar work and topical songs presented with a wry sense of humor.
Carl Rosetti is a virtuoso on the chromatic harmonica, enthralling audiences as he seamlessly segues between tones, sliding and bending notes with accomplished finesse. Carl?s awe-inspiring performances can sweeten romantic tunes or bounce the house with rocking rhythms.
The Art of Meaning blends top-rate folk-pop talent with a jazzy, bluesy flair. “Paul Iwancio has assembled a cabal of Baltimore?s finest to bring his compositions to life,” says Bob Frapples, of Music Monthly. “The result ? sates this listener?s appetite for catchy tune-smithery and lyrical content which is smart without being too smart.”
This birthday bash promises to be a true celebration.
If you go
The Art of Meaning
» Venue: The Cellar Stage, 5315 Harford Roadin the Faith Community UMC, Baltimore
» Time: 8 p.m.
» Cost: $14
» More info: 410-521-9099, www.uptownconcerts.com
