"sandman" sandy allen: News

Alan Lorber, who discovered, nurtured , and produced Papa Nebo and Free Beer, has put together an album of Sandman's early material. Most are cuts from the aforementioned groups, but there are several previously unreleased tracks. The "Anthology" album offers the listener a glimpse into Sandman's past. Go to the Orchard (on the links page) to check it out. Thanks to Chris Dipaola (and to Brother John T.) "Horses to Water" is in rotation at WBLQ 96.7 FM, with more stations to follow - stay tuned!!!

If you go to the "buy" page, you will find that you can order the "Horses to Water" CD from cdbaby. On the "links" page you will find itsaboutmusic.com, another online outlet where "HtoH20" is available, and the Orchard, where the newly released "Anthology" (historic Sandman compositions) and the old Free Beer/Papa Nebo stuff is available.
Sandman wants you to know there are a few actual places - real physical, here in space & time places- where you can get the thing, and simultaneously interact with an actual human, if you're into that sort of thing. Here they are, in no particular order (their support is greatly appreciated):

Frets
11 Canal St.
Westerly, RI 02891
(Zack is a wizard at repairs & such - a cool music store)

Mojo Music
105 Franklin St.
Westerly, RI 02891
( website on links page -Great selection of guitars, etc.)

Watermark Cafe
N. Stonington, Ct.
I don't know the street # or zip code. If you can find N. Ston. - it's off rte.2 between Westerly & Foxwoods - you'll find the h2omark (it's almost the only thing in town). Laurie runs a giftshop/restaurant/art gallery/ occasional music venue - great place to browse and relax.
There is another option. If you happen to see Sandman, ask him. He probably has one in his truck (or maybe in his pocket).

That's right, folks. Rick Koster has written some kind words, after listening to "Horses to Water" ! Check out the review on the press page.

Who's that? Not a who, a what - Rhode Island Songwriters Association. Sandman joined in late February and has hit a few open mics, introducing himself, finding his way around, trying to get busy... seems to be working. While attending the "second Sunday" writers' circle at AS220 in Providence, he stepped outside for a smoke and was joined by Ryan Fitzsimmons, a well-known talent from Cambridge, Ma., who hosts the circle. "Good songs, I'm Sandman". (handshake)
"Ryan. Thanks. You here for the open mic"?
"Yeah...I just joined a couple of weeks ago...trying to learn the ropes".
"Cool. You wanna play the next circle"?
"Uh...Does that mean I have to write a 'snakebite' song"? (the topic had been chosen just moments before)
"Yeah, that's how it works".
So, there he was - had to say "maybe...can I let you know in a day or so"?
"Sure".
Just then a few other smokin' songwriters came out and the conversation turned lively, mostly about the weather (it was finally far enough above freezing that one could actually enjoy a smoke outside - like you can smoke inside anywhere, anymore).
Like a flying goose, honking in the distant sky, the line began to form. It flew overhead and faded to the opposite horizon, but Sandman had caught it as it passed.
"Hey, Ryan". He looked over."I'll do it".
"Cool".
Back inside, the bar was abuzz with the unmistakable chatter of people with a common bond. Sandman stepped into the performance room and sat down to wait his turn at the open mic, by which time he'd scribbled a few lines.
Here's how it works; each person in the "circle" sings four songs, in turn. One of them is a new song, for which a topic was chosen a month before. Those in the audience are given a 3x5 card and a pencil upon entry, instructed to write a topic. After the performance, each writer/singer picks a card from the "deck", then everybody votes.
Sandman did his handful of songs, chatted briefly with his new friends, and drove home, a flock of geese in his head now - driving always does it. Well, actually, not always...it'd been a while, and it felt real good. No telling how the song will turn out, but he's workin' on it, and that's cool.
So, come out to AS220. It's a very cool place, and you'll get to hear four brand new "snakebite "songs.

Later next month (28th), Sandman will be appearing at Brewed Awakenings, a Starbucks-like place in Wakefield (there's also one in Johnston). Both host performances by RISA members every Saturday from 8-10 pm. Sandman will be splitting the night with Tim Franklin (see links)
Aside from these new developments, the hardworking Hoolios are keeping busy...and there's the Rivergods' 10th anniversary gig. Check the calendar page. SIGN the GUESTBOOK!!!
That's all for now - my fingers hurt. Stay tuned.

I'm not complaining...really. If you're reading this you will have noticed that The Hoolios occupy a prominant place in Sandman's life. Since the first gig at Hanafin's last month, these guys have gotten busy! A couple of months ago they were sagging under that old "we'll never get out of this basement" syndrome.
So, if it seems as if Sandman is slacking, it is an illusion...true, the Hoolios thing diverts some of his energy, otherwise directed to his solo career... there are gigs in the works. Stay tuned.

Singer/songwriter Jim Carpenter is at it again...his new combo, "The Hoolios" will be appearing at Hanafin's Pub in New London, Thurs. 2/1 & 2/8, also St. Patrick's Day. The band will be celebrating Jim's big 50 at Sneekers in Groton 3/31. A quick 5-song set w/ the Rivergods (sans Nancy) was a blast ( Muddy Waters, N.L., Fri.1/26) Thanks to the loyal R'god fans who turned out. Stay tuned for the upcoming R'gods 10th anniversary extravaganza!