Carolann Solebello: news

New shows, new season, new clothes. Well, that last thing is negotiable, I suppose, but definitely fun to think about. And I'm thinking about lots of things lately.

First of all, my not-a-baby-anymore starts school next week. Wow. All the parents I've spoken to since I became one were definitely not kidding about time speeding up as your kids grow. Although it's merely Pre-K I'll be sending my little boy off to, I feel it's a big milestone for both of us. I'm sure Mom will shed more tears than he will on day one.

In musical news, I've been writing lots and editing more as I prepare to record a new CD this winter. I'm hoping for a mix of newly-penned originals and traditional tunes. I do so love Appalachian ballads and mountain gospel.

I am thankful for the opportunity to play with good friends this month - FRED GILLEN, JR., STEVE KIRKMAN, and ERIC PUENTE of HOPE MACHINE, MEG BRAUN and AVIV ROTH. Each one of these musicians inspires me in a different way. I'm hoping to absorb a little musical mojo this month.

Check my CALENDAR page for upcoming shows. Hope to see you soon. Until I do, I wish you good friends, good cheer, and

Peace,
Carolann

Well, folk fans, this is my very first update as an unemployed bassist...

Yes, it's true. I played my last shows with Red Molly July 23-25 at the Falcon Ridge Folk Festival in Hillsdale, New York. Bittersweet, indeed, since Falcon Ridge was where it all began for Red Molly back in July of 2004. Six years can really fly by when you're busy taking the folk scene by storm.

Now that Red Molly's calendar is far too full to be conducive to raising a child or cultivating a marriage, I have stepped aside to begin the next chapter of my life back where I began - as a singer/songwriter.

Though I will be sticking closer to home in the coming months, I am glad to report that my solo performance calendar is filling up just enough for my liking. Three shows this month, in Long Island, Manhattan and Philadelphia. Join me if you're able. I'd love to see friends new and old as I strike out on my own.

Here's to the waning of summer, and the approach of fall, which has always been a time of new beginnings for me. Fresh new notebooks, anyone?

Peace,
Carolann

Hi Friends ~

I am beyond grateful for all the expressions of support and encouragement I received in reply to my last newsletter. A thousand thanks to everyone who sent a note, signed up on the mailing list, or just sent good vibes my way. I appreciate every single one of you, and I am delighted to know you are willing to ride out this transition with me. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.

Since July is my last month on the road with Red Molly, I will cherish every moment, and hope to see some of you along the way.

Beginning in August, I strike out alone. Check my calendar page to know where to find me when I'm not in Brooklyn.

Until next time, I wish you

Peace,
Carolann

Today is June 15, 2010, and I have big news to share, friends…

As Red Molly’s calendar shifts toward extended national tours, I will no longer perform with the band, but will instead pursue solo opportunities that allow for greater balance between the two loves of my life – family and music.

My last shows with Red Molly will be at Falcon Ridge Folk Festival in Hillsdale, New York, July 23-25. Fitting, indeed, since Red Molly was born on a hillside at Falcon Ridge in 2004. Things have truly come full circle.

Beginning in August, our friend Molly Venter will join Red Molly in my stead. I heartily endorse this choice and wish the band continued success.

As sad as I am that Red Molly will now become part of my past, I am excited about my musical future. I am currently sketching out a new solo record, and will continue to perform on my own, albeit on a more limited basis. Please do check my Calendar page for details on upcoming dates, and join the email list, so we can stay in touch.

Red Molly has the best fans a band could ever hope for, and I shall not soon forget the many wonderful people I have met on this amazing journey. The past six years have been nothing short of incredible, and I do hope that I have been able to return to our audiences at least a small part of the joy I have received from performing with Red Molly.

Until we meet again, I wish you love, peace, and lots of great music.

Carolann

Had a perfectly marvelous time playing Caffe Vivaldi in NYC with MEG BRAUN and CHERYL PRASHKER on Saturday night. Bill King was there with his video camera, and posted a few tunes on YouTube:

Behind the Door


JerseyLad611 also was there and took a few nifty vids. Here's one:

Michael


Thanks to all who came out to hear, and special thanks to Bill and JerseyLad611 for documenting the event!

Pax,
cs

Hello, friends!

We are enjoying the loveliest afternoon here in Brooklyn - sunny and mild, with just the hint of a breeze in the air. I happily spent the afternoon soaking in the pre-spring warmth, drying out my soul (and my boots) after the soggy, soggy nor'easter weekend...

I have two exciting things to announce this month - a solo show in Manhattan, plus a new release on Elizabeth Records!

First, the show:

Saturday, April 3, 7-9PM
Carolann Solebello and Meg Braun
Caffe Vivaldi
32 Jones Street
New York, NY 10014
212.691.7538

I am delighted to be sharing an evening onstage with Meg Braun, a fine songwriter and dear friend. The inimitable Cheryl Prashker sits in on percussion, and perhaps a CC Railroad song or two, duet-style... Come join us for pasta, wine, and music.

Next, the new release:

Victoria Lavington
Made For Roses

Some of you may remember Victoria as one half of Molly Pitcher, which released the critically acclaimed CD Watching the Rain on Elizabeth Records in 2001. Since then, Victoria has spent her time pursuing other interests, i.e. completing a Masters degree, marrying, and raising a young daughter.

Just as she was beginning to focus on music again and return to performing, Victoria was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer. Transforming her initial devastation into determination, she is facing recovery with strength, resilience, and grace.

Made For Roses is part of that recovery. Recorded during Victoria's hiatus from live performance, these songs represent her more recent writing and hopes for a full-length solo recording sometime in the near future.

"Besides being beautiful, inside and out, Victoria has -- in my opinion -- the voice of an angel and the songwriting pen of a folk goddess." - Sharon Goldman, SongwritingScene.com

Go HERE to read more and purchase Made For Roses:

http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/victorialavington

Do join Meg and I at Caffe Vivialdi if you can. We'll be so glad to see you.

A million thanks, as always, for your support! May the new season bring fresh hopes (and perhaps a few Cadbury eggs) to you and yours.

February is often the coldest time of year here in NYC, a month that leaves me longing for spring - and a year older - every time.

This year, I'm lighting this dark time with lots of exciting travels with Red Molly, plus two very special shows here at home.

First, an in-the-round evening with my good gal pals Sharon Goldman and Meg Braun at Googie's Lounge on Ludlow Street. This little venue feels like home, and swapping songs with these talented ladies will surely chase away the blues for me...

Second, what may be the most important show of the year. My dear friend and fellow member of songwriting group Chicks with Dip, VICTORIA LAVINGTON, is currently fighting the good fight against Stage 3 breast cancer. Some of you may remember Victoria as one half of the acclaimed folk duo MOLLY PITCHER. To help Victoria and her family defray the staggering cost of aggressive alternative treatments, Christopher Street Coffeehouse is hosting a fundraising concert on February 24. Featured are RED MOLLY, NATALIA ZUKERMAN, and a whole passel of Chicks performing songs by Victoria. See the Calendar page for details, and be sure to visit http://www.victorialavington.com to read Vic's story and donate to her healing fund.

Wishing everyone love and light in this dark month.

Peace,
Carolann

Big hugs to the folks who came out for my coming-out party (ha!) at Googie's Lounge in NYC last night! Thanks to the supportive energy in the room, my first solo flight in five years was great fun.

Steven, Googie's friendly neighborhood sound tech, even helped me try out my spiffy new Elvis-style mic. Groovy.

Also enjoyed listening to Roger from Dandelion Snow and Bob Keel. Fun, fun, fun. I must remember to do this again sometime...

Hi gang. Glad to announce two solo shows for November and December...

On November 5, I'll be flying totally solo at Googie's Lounge above The Living Room in NYC. Showtime is 9:30. Gotta admit I'll need to feel some love in the room - it's been a really, really long time since my guitar and I have been alone in front of a mic for 45 minutes. I'm strangely excited at the prospect... I'd love it if you joined me.

On December 3, it will be my honor to share the stage at Christopher Street Coffeehouse with three friends who happen to be some of the finest songwriters I know. Kirsten Williams, Sharon Goldman and Meg Braun all write songs that speak to my heart. I can't wait to play in the round with these fine women. Showtime is 7PM.

More to come. Stay tuned.

Happy Labor Day to all of us. May all our labors be fruitful this fall and onward...

I am delighted to mention that Glass of Desire made it to number 67 on the Folk DJ chart for August. Not bad for an itty-bitty release from an itty-bitty label in Brooklyn, right? Truly, I'm just glad folks are playing the record on the air. Thanks to the wonderful deejays who have been supportive of my latest solo effort!

Glad to report that a few shows have been added to the calendar. I'm looking forward to playing in-the-round with good friends Meg Braun, Sharon Goldman and Kirsten Williams at Manhattan's Christopher Street Coffeehouse on December 3. Looking further ahead, I will have the honor of opening for Aztec Two-Step on May 1 at the Hurdy Gurdy Coffeehouse in Fair Lawn, NJ.

Hoping to add a few more shows in between Red Molly's busy schedule, so stay tuned.

Love & peace to all you beautiful lovers of music,

Carolann

Hi All!

I'm excited to tell you that my first official radio interview promoting Glass of Desire will air on Friday, August 7 at 10:30PM on WHUD 100.7FM in the Hudson Valley. Catherine Michaels, the delightful and articulate host of "Night Rhythms," will shine her Artist Spotlight on Yours Truly for a little while, and I couldn't be more pleased.

If you don't happen to be in the WHUD listening area, you can hear our chat online at www.whud.com. Wahoo!

I am also thrilled to report that Glass of Desire has received airplay on these fine stations:

WBGU (Bowling Green OH)
WAMC (Albany NY)
KOPN (Columbia MO)
WFMT (Chicago IL)
KZSC (Santa Cruz CA)
WSCL/WSDL (Salisbury MD)
WHUS (Storrs CT)
WPKN (Bridgeport CT)
WXPN (Philadelphia PA)

Stay tuned!

Yes, the latest solo CD is now available at my favorite virtual indie record shop, CD Baby. I am so excited I could hop up and down on one foot all afternoon! or at least until I get tired in four minutes or so...

http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/solebello2

So, for the very first time, I have a website all to myself. I suddenly feel so much cooler...