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Lisa
& Girl Friday @ CBGBs in New York
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As
she stood upon the stage -- her band vamping in the background --
Lisa Jackson paid homage to all the great performers that stood
before her on this stage on the lower eastside of New York City.
She spoke of legends and pioneers. The crowd reacted with cheers
as she momentarily stepped back. The band built to a climax and
then she lunged forward exclaiming, "and I am humble, yet
unafraid." The delivery was powerful and effective. When
watching an athlete you can always tell those who want to win
versus those that are afraid of loosing. Tonight Lisa Jackson and
Girl Friday played to win. They were tight, Lisa's voice was
strong, and they kept alive the strong tradition of emerging
musicians that have graced the stage of CBGs; bands like Blondie,
Television, The Ramones and The Patty Smith Group.
Born
Steve Friday, a country boy from Fayetteville, Georgia, he
reinvented himself – first on stage, then completely – to Lisa
Jackson. It has been an interesting evolution, one that has seen a
cover band emerge into an original force of nature.
Ever since it’s early rise in the New York City
underground, the changes have been dramatic, and the progress
undeniable. With each new show the confidence – along with the
fan base – grows. This is good old-fashioned rock ‘n roll
inspired by Lisa’s favorites, Blondie and Bowie amongst them. It
is fun, powerful, honest and infectious: it makes you feel good.
Strong driving rhythms compliment deep lyrics where Lisa
challenges the status quo, suggesting that life would be a bore if
we were all the same. Songs
like “Beautiful Freak” and “Fabulously Done” are becoming
anthems that are attracting a mixed audience, though her fan seems
to be mostly straight.
They
currently have a self-produced CD entitled “I’m A.O.K,” with
a selection of 9 songs. The record is good, but with a sub par
recording studio and lack of a producer, not quite as powerful as
their live show. Still, this is a record worth getting, and
definitely a band worth following. Once they move beyond the
underground, critics may disregard them as a garage band. But they
said that about Bon Jovi as well, so what do the critics know.
Whatever that “thing” is that separates a group from the pack,
Lisa Jackson & Girl Friday have it. I
won’t be the least bit surprised to see them break out
nationally.
For
more information; www.sonicbids.com/lisajacksonandgirlfriday
or
http://cdbaby.com/cd/lisaj2
Copyright 2003 - All Rights Reserved
