Well then, what can we say? It was a warm and sunny day; the next it was cold, with two feet of snow and trees were destroyed for miles and miles in the storm’s wake. At times during the storm, it was difficult to determine whether the rumbling sounds were those of thunder (in a snow storm, no less!) or of the trees breaking under their own weight and exploding from the inside-out.
In case you haven’t heard, the Buffalo & WNY area is still recovering from a surprise snow storm that occurred on October 12th. I have lived here most of my life, and I don’t recall snow earlier than October 31st, and certainly not this kind of “real winter” snow storm. I saw a transformer exploding, and it looked just like 4th of July fireworks. Very odd. So were the reports of blue, green, and purple lightening! (I didn’t see any, but several reputable sources described it to me).
Juke Manor was without power for eight days, although on or about the fifth day a friend blessed us with a generator. We still did not have a phone connection until yesterday (October 29th), which makes what, 18 days without a telephone? On October 13th, I left early in the morning to get some groceries—all told it was a six-hour trip to a store that is about seven minutes from my house… We also had to cancel a 50th Anniversary party for my folks that has been planned for over a year, and we had to cancel a gig on Friday the 13th (I think that’s one of only three that I’ve ever scuttled for any reason in the last 25 years). Big shout-out to Seneca Niagara—the folks in admin decided to pay all of their bands anyway, even though nobody was able to make their gigs that night!
We are finally starting to see more of the local streets cleared and the 25 foot long by 8 foot high, five foot deep wood and brush pile in front of my house is starting to get moved out of the way by workers. What impressed me the most was how people really pitched-in to help others. We had a lot of help from friends, family, and neighbors at our place, and we were able to remove most of the debris from the lawns of quite a few older folks that would have had great difficulty in doing so on their own. I’d also like to thank all of the relief workers, the power companies that sent personnel to help National Grid and NYSEG restore electricity (we saw trucks from down south and from Quebec), and the phone company men. Maybe somebody can take the time to explain to me what the different hard-hat designs and shapes mean…
Needless to say, we’ve been pretty busy and are just now starting to get back to band stuff… The exciting news is that we now have three (yes, _3_!) recording projects that will be available this Christmas season, plus another CD that we want to remind you about:
The first is the long-awaited album project from Gregg Juke & The Mighty No-Stars—Blues Power. This project has been several years in the making, but we feel it will have been worth the wait. Sixteen tracks (13 originals and three covers), available soon (watch the home website: http://www.mightynostars.com/ for details). We will get release-party details out to you as soon as possible.
The second CD is a local project to benefit the Food Bank of Western New York. This CD is called “Happy Holidays from Buffalo,” and will feature lots of local talent. It is being created under the auspices of an organization called Musicians for WNY (http://www.musiciansforwny.org/). We are contributing a new song slated for our next album called “Always (The Poor).” Pick-up a great gift this year and help people helping others at the same time.
The last CD that we’re going to be on in 2006 is a compilation on DCD Records called “WBFO Gives You The Blues, Vol. II,” which is a premium for those donating to WBFO during this year’s fund drive. We are contributing the track “Nomo Loot” from the upcoming album Blues Power. Lots of great local blues and roots acts will be involved, and these tracks were all hand-picked by WBFO Blues host Jim Santella. Pick this one up and give yourself or a friend the Blues this year…
Also, the long-delayed release of Boston-based singer-songwriter Mark Lenkei’s second album should be upon us soon. The album features yours truly on drums, percussion and vocals, keyboard phenom J.J. Moscato on organ, and was produced by our long-time friend and associate (and sometime Mighty No-Stars bass-sub) Glenn Bernardis. We’ll keep you posted as details are available.
We had our first gig back after the storm and a brief pre-planned hiatus at the Pearl Street Grill on Saturday night. Great crowd, and it was good to see Patti Parks, Judd Sunshine, and Gus Pusateri in the audience. Sorry the Sabres lost, folks… I was really looking forward to getting some cheap applause and billing the rest of the evening as “Sabre-ween.” Don’t forget to get down to the Lafayette Tap Room on November 4th and support Patti and all of the other bands competing in this year’s “Memphis Bound” competition.
In other news, Guy, myself, Joel, Pastor Joe, and Joel’s son Justin recently went to a shooting event called “Shoot ‘till You Drop.” Yes, that’s really what it was called. We partook of various shotgun shooting sports, including skeet, trap, and sporting clays. The entire band was supposed to go, but some last-minute issues came up for some of the guys. We asked our manager, Susan, if she'd like to come along with us (I suggested a Katherine Hepburn type of look with riding pants), but she just spun on her heels and mumbled something mostly unintelligible, probably unsavory, and largely unfavorable to the idea... Try as we might, we did not see Michael Moore, Alec Baldwin, or any member of PETA anywhere on the premises. I know next to nothing about shotgun shooting (currently, I now know just a little more than nothing); needless to say I hit less than 50 percent of the targets, but Joel and Guy both hit TWO with ONE shot. Pastor Joe also pulls them out of the air with great ease. I fared better on the air-rifle range, having the second fastest time for knocking down all the targets. I guess all of that practice with rifle marksmanship in the service was worth something! Look for pictures and the full scoop on the home website soon…
Finally, congratulations go out once again to former No-Star Jack Prybylski for his nomination in the category of “Best Blues Saxophone Player” in the upcoming Buffalo Area Music Awards. Congratulations also go out to all of the nominees.
Thanks for checking in, we’ll see you at one of the gigs, and of course, God Bless & Good Blues…
GJ
Monday, October 30, 2006
Monday, September 25, 2006
A few News Items...
*We had a great gig back at Alternative Brews on Saturday night... small but motivated crowd,
plus guest appearances from J.J. Moscato (www.jjmoscato.com), Jack Civilleto, April Mazzone, and Patti Parks! And we saw Doug "Shaky-Leg" Thornton from The Electras, Mike Mietlicki from Musicians for Western New York (www.musiciansforwny.org), and renowned music educator John Fatta in the audience... Not bad for our first gig back at Alt-Brews since last June!
*The album is coming!!!! Really! Watch the home website (www.mightynostars.com) for more info; we should have discs in about four weeks (well in advance of the Holiday shopping season).
Also, look for more upcoming changes as we continue our website overhaul...
*A new October date has just been added (Friday the 13th at Seneca Niagara Casino, 6pm-10pm). Hope to see you there...
*Lots of new originals (and more coming) in the live show!
*As we mentioned earlier, we'll be taking a little breather in October, but the band will be participating in an upcoming event called "Shoot 'till you Drop"... Only serious! More details and photos to come(?)...
Talk with you soon, God Bless & Good Blues,
GJ
plus guest appearances from J.J. Moscato (www.jjmoscato.com), Jack Civilleto, April Mazzone, and Patti Parks! And we saw Doug "Shaky-Leg" Thornton from The Electras, Mike Mietlicki from Musicians for Western New York (www.musiciansforwny.org), and renowned music educator John Fatta in the audience... Not bad for our first gig back at Alt-Brews since last June!
*The album is coming!!!! Really! Watch the home website (www.mightynostars.com) for more info; we should have discs in about four weeks (well in advance of the Holiday shopping season).
Also, look for more upcoming changes as we continue our website overhaul...
*A new October date has just been added (Friday the 13th at Seneca Niagara Casino, 6pm-10pm). Hope to see you there...
*Lots of new originals (and more coming) in the live show!
*As we mentioned earlier, we'll be taking a little breather in October, but the band will be participating in an upcoming event called "Shoot 'till you Drop"... Only serious! More details and photos to come(?)...
Talk with you soon, God Bless & Good Blues,
GJ
Monday, September 11, 2006
September Song...
I heard an interesting version of this classic once, performed by Lou Reed, believe it or not... Not adding it to our set-list anytime soon, however.
It has been a very busy summer concert season. We have some dates this month (primarily the Casinos, the River Grill, and Alt-Brews), but we will be taking some much-needed time off from performing in October for R&R (Rest and Relaxation, not you-know-what) and to re-tool our show (new songs; LOTS of new originals) and do some recording (not to mention my parents 50th wedding anniversary, which is a pretty big deal for the entire Juke household).
As it turns out, the Christmas compilation CD that we are submitting a track for is coming out this year, so we are finishing-up a new original for that project... But the really exciting news is that finally, finally, finally, our first full-length album will be out this fall (finishing touches are being completed as we speak); definitely available before Thanksgiving for this year's Holiday Season...
Watch the home website for more changes on the design front, as well as updates in the "fan of the month" section, and CD release and availability details!
On a more somber note, today is 9-11... It seems almost impossible that five years have passed already. No matter what your politics are, please remember our troops worldwide, firemen, and law enforcement personnell, and their families in your thoughts and prayers.
C U at a show soon, or catch us live in November...
God Bless & Good Blues,
GJ
It has been a very busy summer concert season. We have some dates this month (primarily the Casinos, the River Grill, and Alt-Brews), but we will be taking some much-needed time off from performing in October for R&R (Rest and Relaxation, not you-know-what) and to re-tool our show (new songs; LOTS of new originals) and do some recording (not to mention my parents 50th wedding anniversary, which is a pretty big deal for the entire Juke household).
As it turns out, the Christmas compilation CD that we are submitting a track for is coming out this year, so we are finishing-up a new original for that project... But the really exciting news is that finally, finally, finally, our first full-length album will be out this fall (finishing touches are being completed as we speak); definitely available before Thanksgiving for this year's Holiday Season...
Watch the home website for more changes on the design front, as well as updates in the "fan of the month" section, and CD release and availability details!
On a more somber note, today is 9-11... It seems almost impossible that five years have passed already. No matter what your politics are, please remember our troops worldwide, firemen, and law enforcement personnell, and their families in your thoughts and prayers.
C U at a show soon, or catch us live in November...
God Bless & Good Blues,
GJ
Saturday, August 05, 2006
A Rather August Assembly...
Why? Why can't I stop with the corny tangential semi-meaningless post titles? I dunno; it just seems so much better than "Entry # 275, 8/6/06"...
Anyway, once again, longtime no post from us here... Sorry folks, we have had some computer difficulties, as well as a really busy summer, and we are in the thick of the summer concert season as we speak. August is packed! Come out and see the band.
We had a great time this evening at St. Christopher's Summerfest 2006. Good food, nice crowd, and of course, great music. We'd like to thank St. Chris' staff for hosting such a great event, and including your humble Mighty No-Stars in the mix. Our two newest No-Stars, drummer Paul Warner and saxophonist Greg Connell really outdid themselves this evening, as did the entire group. Come see the band while you can still get in for less than $25 a ticket!!!!
More changes coming at the home website (www.mightynostars.com)... Check back often.
Also, don't forget to check us out in Lockport, N.Y. on Saturday, August 26. The Boats & Blues event benefits a very worthy cause...
CU next time. God Bless & Good Blues...
GJ
Anyway, once again, longtime no post from us here... Sorry folks, we have had some computer difficulties, as well as a really busy summer, and we are in the thick of the summer concert season as we speak. August is packed! Come out and see the band.
We had a great time this evening at St. Christopher's Summerfest 2006. Good food, nice crowd, and of course, great music. We'd like to thank St. Chris' staff for hosting such a great event, and including your humble Mighty No-Stars in the mix. Our two newest No-Stars, drummer Paul Warner and saxophonist Greg Connell really outdid themselves this evening, as did the entire group. Come see the band while you can still get in for less than $25 a ticket!!!!
More changes coming at the home website (www.mightynostars.com)... Check back often.
Also, don't forget to check us out in Lockport, N.Y. on Saturday, August 26. The Boats & Blues event benefits a very worthy cause...
CU next time. God Bless & Good Blues...
GJ
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
Moon, Tune, June...
Sorry, just went to Tin Pan Alley for a moment...
In Mighty No-Stars News:
Last Friday's gig at Alternative Brews (one of Western New York's premier Blues & Roots venues) was our last for awhile-- the end of a 6-month stint as one of Alt-Brews' monthly house bands. We hope you made it out (it was a great time), and we hope to see you back there in the Fall. Paul (Alt-Brews owner and entertainment impressario) uses the Summer months to try out new bands, so if you visit Alternative Brews frequently, you'll be seeing some new faces over the next few months. Please do continue to support Paul; Alternative Brews has been a great supporter of the Blues and local live music for many years. In fact, they just celebrated 11 years in business with a full day of music, barbecue, and mayhem (not sure about the mayhem, but it sounded good). Congratulations go out to Paul and family, and to all of the Alt-Brews staff for a fantastic 11 years. God Bless, Good Blues, and may you have many, many more!
Our Doctor of Organology, Mr. Guy Nirelli, was unable to attend the festivities, so we had the pleasure of working once again with the incredibly talented J.J. "The Jet Plane" Moscato. J.J. "threw down" on vocals, organ, and piano, and he is a wonder to watch and listen to. Check out his website (www.jjmoscato.com), see him with Kate Engler, JPG (the Jack Prybylski Group), and with his very own band, Blue Avenue. We just found out that J.J. and his group will be appearing at a bluesfest in Lansing, Michigan, and have booked some club dates there as well, so look out, Detroit, J.J. The Jet Plane is making a musical straffing run, and ya'll will never be the same! You can also dig J.J.'s soulful vocal stylings on (former No-Star) Jack Prybylski's latest CD (available at www.jackprybylski.com).
The Summer concert calendar is filling-up quickly. Check out the home website (www.mightynostars.com) for all of the latest info on upcoming Gregg Juke & The Mighty No-Stars gigs. Sign-up for the e-mail list, and you'll always know what's happening!
GJ
In Mighty No-Stars News:
Last Friday's gig at Alternative Brews (one of Western New York's premier Blues & Roots venues) was our last for awhile-- the end of a 6-month stint as one of Alt-Brews' monthly house bands. We hope you made it out (it was a great time), and we hope to see you back there in the Fall. Paul (Alt-Brews owner and entertainment impressario) uses the Summer months to try out new bands, so if you visit Alternative Brews frequently, you'll be seeing some new faces over the next few months. Please do continue to support Paul; Alternative Brews has been a great supporter of the Blues and local live music for many years. In fact, they just celebrated 11 years in business with a full day of music, barbecue, and mayhem (not sure about the mayhem, but it sounded good). Congratulations go out to Paul and family, and to all of the Alt-Brews staff for a fantastic 11 years. God Bless, Good Blues, and may you have many, many more!
Our Doctor of Organology, Mr. Guy Nirelli, was unable to attend the festivities, so we had the pleasure of working once again with the incredibly talented J.J. "The Jet Plane" Moscato. J.J. "threw down" on vocals, organ, and piano, and he is a wonder to watch and listen to. Check out his website (www.jjmoscato.com), see him with Kate Engler, JPG (the Jack Prybylski Group), and with his very own band, Blue Avenue. We just found out that J.J. and his group will be appearing at a bluesfest in Lansing, Michigan, and have booked some club dates there as well, so look out, Detroit, J.J. The Jet Plane is making a musical straffing run, and ya'll will never be the same! You can also dig J.J.'s soulful vocal stylings on (former No-Star) Jack Prybylski's latest CD (available at www.jackprybylski.com).
The Summer concert calendar is filling-up quickly. Check out the home website (www.mightynostars.com) for all of the latest info on upcoming Gregg Juke & The Mighty No-Stars gigs. Sign-up for the e-mail list, and you'll always know what's happening!
GJ
Monday, May 08, 2006
Great Gigs...
We had a most excellent time playing for all ya'll at Alternative Brews (Sheridan Dr., Tonawanda, N.Y.) on Friday for our monthly "house gig." When the audience "goes wild," it helps us to go wild too, and pour-on even more of the entertainment sauce that makes our brand of music so tasty to the eyes and ears (if we do say so ourselves)...
We had one of the biggest rounds of applause I've heard at the Brews all year (or maybe that was when the Sabres put away the winning goal; I can't remember)-- but in any case, good times were had by all, and we thank you.
Next month (June) is our last "monthly first Friday" at Alt-Brews for awhile (we'll return in the Fall; Paul likes to try-out new bands during the Summer season, so you should be seeing some new faces at the Brews soon). You'll want to join us for our end-of-the-season party featuring special guest keyboardist and vocalist J.J. Moscato, formerly of the Marvelous Heptones, and currently performing with Kate Engler, Sonny Mayo and the Drivers, JPG, and his own band, Blue Avenue. Most Western New York Blues and R&B fans are familiar with J.J., but if you haven't heard him yet, you're not going to want to miss this show... 'Nuff Said.
We're going to take a little time off for R&R; we hope to see you at our next public performance at the River Grill - 20 Aqua Lane, in Tonawanda, NY on Sunday, May 21st; 3:30 PM - 7:30 PM...
Check the home website (www.mightynostars.com) for updates to our calendar; the gig/concert schedule is filling-up fast for the Summer season.
Cya, God Bless & Good Blues,
GJ
We had one of the biggest rounds of applause I've heard at the Brews all year (or maybe that was when the Sabres put away the winning goal; I can't remember)-- but in any case, good times were had by all, and we thank you.
Next month (June) is our last "monthly first Friday" at Alt-Brews for awhile (we'll return in the Fall; Paul likes to try-out new bands during the Summer season, so you should be seeing some new faces at the Brews soon). You'll want to join us for our end-of-the-season party featuring special guest keyboardist and vocalist J.J. Moscato, formerly of the Marvelous Heptones, and currently performing with Kate Engler, Sonny Mayo and the Drivers, JPG, and his own band, Blue Avenue. Most Western New York Blues and R&B fans are familiar with J.J., but if you haven't heard him yet, you're not going to want to miss this show... 'Nuff Said.
We're going to take a little time off for R&R; we hope to see you at our next public performance at the River Grill - 20 Aqua Lane, in Tonawanda, NY on Sunday, May 21st; 3:30 PM - 7:30 PM...
Check the home website (www.mightynostars.com) for updates to our calendar; the gig/concert schedule is filling-up fast for the Summer season.
Cya, God Bless & Good Blues,
GJ
Thursday, April 27, 2006
More News for 2006
What did the boy say when he threw the clock through the open window?
"Time Flies." (Excitable boy, they all said...)
It's been quite a long while since our last news update, so here are a few things that are happening:
* We have agreed to submit a track for an upcoming Christmas CD that will be released for charity this year... Check out www.musiciansforwny.org, or check back here or at our home website for more details...
* After an extremely long hiatus, I have updated the "Blues & The Abstract Truth" site with a new (previously published) article. Check out www.veritasblues.blogspot.com .
* Bob Wever Motorsports and Marine are continuing to run the jingle Bruce and I put together for them last year, and recently the 97 Rock "Morning Circus" crew called "Weaver Fever" the best thing on the air... (kinda makes you wonder what else is running on the radio, doesn't it?)...
* The official home website for Gregg Juke & The Mighty No-Stars is undergoing a massive site reconstruction. Our webmaster Dr. Bill has done a great job creating a simple yet elegant new look (check out www.mightynostars.com), but check back often, because we haven't even gotten started yet! We are currently looking to add more audio, some video, a whole lot more photos (right now there are none, because we decided to start from scratch), and a new "fan-of-the-month" page. Don't be surprised if we snap your picture and ask for an interview at an upcoming gig!
* Speaking of new website features, we are now running a monthly contest for fun and prizes at our upcoming shows... Check-out www.mightynostars.com for the secret code; 'nuff said...
* Our Spring/Summer concert schedule is filling-up quickly. Check out the home website for details, but two events we want you to know about are the upcoming "Blues Cruise" on the Grand Lady in June (check out www.wnyblues.org for details and ticket info), and the "Boats and Blues" gig ( a great charity event featuring you know who-- oh, ok, Gregg Juke & The Mighty No-Stars) happening in August at the Lockport Locks. Get your tickets right away, you won't want to miss these events...
* If you don't know about our gig schedule for May, June, July, August, and September, then you probably need to sign-up for our e-mail list (that site again is: www.mightynostars.com !!!!)
See you at an upcoming gig soon. Don't forget the first Friday of every month through June at Alternative Brews in Amherst. In June, we're featuring special guest keyboardist and vocalist J.J. Moscato. This will be a hot show, so don't miss it!
GJ
"Time Flies." (Excitable boy, they all said...)
It's been quite a long while since our last news update, so here are a few things that are happening:
* We have agreed to submit a track for an upcoming Christmas CD that will be released for charity this year... Check out www.musiciansforwny.org, or check back here or at our home website for more details...
* After an extremely long hiatus, I have updated the "Blues & The Abstract Truth" site with a new (previously published) article. Check out www.veritasblues.blogspot.com .
* Bob Wever Motorsports and Marine are continuing to run the jingle Bruce and I put together for them last year, and recently the 97 Rock "Morning Circus" crew called "Weaver Fever" the best thing on the air... (kinda makes you wonder what else is running on the radio, doesn't it?)...
* The official home website for Gregg Juke & The Mighty No-Stars is undergoing a massive site reconstruction. Our webmaster Dr. Bill has done a great job creating a simple yet elegant new look (check out www.mightynostars.com), but check back often, because we haven't even gotten started yet! We are currently looking to add more audio, some video, a whole lot more photos (right now there are none, because we decided to start from scratch), and a new "fan-of-the-month" page. Don't be surprised if we snap your picture and ask for an interview at an upcoming gig!
* Speaking of new website features, we are now running a monthly contest for fun and prizes at our upcoming shows... Check-out www.mightynostars.com for the secret code; 'nuff said...
* Our Spring/Summer concert schedule is filling-up quickly. Check out the home website for details, but two events we want you to know about are the upcoming "Blues Cruise" on the Grand Lady in June (check out www.wnyblues.org for details and ticket info), and the "Boats and Blues" gig ( a great charity event featuring you know who-- oh, ok, Gregg Juke & The Mighty No-Stars) happening in August at the Lockport Locks. Get your tickets right away, you won't want to miss these events...
* If you don't know about our gig schedule for May, June, July, August, and September, then you probably need to sign-up for our e-mail list (that site again is: www.mightynostars.com !!!!)
See you at an upcoming gig soon. Don't forget the first Friday of every month through June at Alternative Brews in Amherst. In June, we're featuring special guest keyboardist and vocalist J.J. Moscato. This will be a hot show, so don't miss it!
GJ
Tuesday, February 07, 2006
Big News for 2006
Well, let's see:
* Joel's back?
* Baby girl?
* Opening up for Howard & The White Boys on Sunday, February 19th at the Lafayette Tap Room in Buffalo?
Yup, we covered those... But here's some news we haven't released as of yet-- We have inked a management deal with Paul Collins Artist Management International, a management and booking agency out of Kansas City. Paul works with many top and up-and-coming Jazz musicians (including recording artist and John Scofield sideman Greg Tardy, and Italian recording artist Roberto Magris). Gregg Juke & The Mighty No-Star Blues Band will certainly be something new for PCAMI, but we are looking forward to breaking new ground together.
Susan Fischer, our stalwart business agent and resident Wonder Woman, will continue as a valued member of our team, working with us on local and regional booking, as well as coordinating some of her more ambitious efforts with Paul and the folks at PCAMI.
Exciting things happening around the No-Stars bullpen; we'll keep you posted on further developments... Can World Domination be far behind????
GJ
* Joel's back?
* Baby girl?
* Opening up for Howard & The White Boys on Sunday, February 19th at the Lafayette Tap Room in Buffalo?
Yup, we covered those... But here's some news we haven't released as of yet-- We have inked a management deal with Paul Collins Artist Management International, a management and booking agency out of Kansas City. Paul works with many top and up-and-coming Jazz musicians (including recording artist and John Scofield sideman Greg Tardy, and Italian recording artist Roberto Magris). Gregg Juke & The Mighty No-Star Blues Band will certainly be something new for PCAMI, but we are looking forward to breaking new ground together.
Susan Fischer, our stalwart business agent and resident Wonder Woman, will continue as a valued member of our team, working with us on local and regional booking, as well as coordinating some of her more ambitious efforts with Paul and the folks at PCAMI.
Exciting things happening around the No-Stars bullpen; we'll keep you posted on further developments... Can World Domination be far behind????
GJ
Some folks say my face, when I play the Bass...
...get all squinched-up like some type of jellyfish, er son'in...
No, not really, but here's some big news-- Jumpin' Joel Thomas is back!!!!
Joel's first post-surgery, post self-X-ray performance was on Friday night at our monthly house gig at Alternative Brews in Amherst. Crowd went wild, and so did the band. We'd like to thank gregarious Glenn Bernardis for doing such an admirable job of filling-in for Joel during his absence.
GJ
No, not really, but here's some big news-- Jumpin' Joel Thomas is back!!!!
Joel's first post-surgery, post self-X-ray performance was on Friday night at our monthly house gig at Alternative Brews in Amherst. Crowd went wild, and so did the band. We'd like to thank gregarious Glenn Bernardis for doing such an admirable job of filling-in for Joel during his absence.
GJ
Monday, January 23, 2006
Baby, Baby...
Not the one by Smokey Robinson _or_ the one by Amy Grant.
News from Juke Central:
Julia Grace was born Monday the 23rd at 10:30 am; 7 lbs. 14 oz.
Mother and baby are fine.
Father is recovering...
(Harry Connick, Jr., who has a little girl, was talking with David Letterman, who has a boy... Connick says "You have to watch out for your boy, but I've got to watch out for _every_ boy!")
GJ
News from Juke Central:
Julia Grace was born Monday the 23rd at 10:30 am; 7 lbs. 14 oz.
Mother and baby are fine.
Father is recovering...
(Harry Connick, Jr., who has a little girl, was talking with David Letterman, who has a boy... Connick says "You have to watch out for your boy, but I've got to watch out for _every_ boy!")
GJ
Thursday, January 12, 2006
Your Mighty No-Stars: Troops in Transition
Thankfully, our bassist, Joel's recovery is going well. Unfortunately, though, it looks like it will take him a little longer to get back into the saddle again with Gregg Juke & The Mighty No-Star Blues Band. He will need some additional surgery and recovery time, so for the time-being, Glenn Bernardis, and perhaps others, will continue to sub for Joel until he is fully recovered and road-worthy... We will hold down the fort for as long as it takes, bud, but hurry up already, Jumpin' Joel!
Due to the aforementioned situation, and the extremely busy musical schedules of several of the No-Stars, you may see some new faces up on the bandstand from time to time. We've got a bunch of young bucks joining the bullpen this year as first-call Mighty No-Subs, and we'll be introducing you to some of them here and at the home website as time goes on. But if it looks like the band is getting younger before your eyes, that's just because it's a fact! We don't have a picture of Dorian Grey in the attic under a blanket or anything, I swear!!!! (MUHUHAHAHAHahaaaaaaaaa...)
GJ
Due to the aforementioned situation, and the extremely busy musical schedules of several of the No-Stars, you may see some new faces up on the bandstand from time to time. We've got a bunch of young bucks joining the bullpen this year as first-call Mighty No-Subs, and we'll be introducing you to some of them here and at the home website as time goes on. But if it looks like the band is getting younger before your eyes, that's just because it's a fact! We don't have a picture of Dorian Grey in the attic under a blanket or anything, I swear!!!! (MUHUHAHAHAHahaaaaaaaaa...)
GJ
Wednesday, December 21, 2005
Happiest of Holidays...
Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, and Happy New Year from Gregg Juke & The Mighty No-Star Blues Band...
Once again, it's been a month since we've posted anything new for you here; the time (and this past year) have really flown by. LOTS has happened in the past few months-- personnel changes, some great gigs, everyone having extremely busy schedules (I was involved in three major Christmas shows this year, Bruce was in two, and Joel hosted one as well-- Who has time for shopping?)... Plus, the Juke family is getting ready for another addition (and I'm not talking about a new den). We've been moving from one hectic event to another, and are looking forward to a little break.
We may have several items of _big_ news for 2006, but we'll let you know about those things as soon as we can confirm them. Right now, we'd appreciate your support at all of our live events (sign-up for our e-mail list at www.MightyNoStars.com for all of the latest gig info).
One news item for our No-Stars fans-- Joel Thomas, master of the electric bass, will be taking a short medical hiatus from the band (he's ok, but needs a little recuperation time). While we await his return, please welcome another multi-talented individual to the bandstand, vocalist/guitarist/keyboardist/songwriter/engineer/producer (are we out of breath yet?), old friend, and _bassist_ Glenn Bernardis (formerly of Mr. Funny and Kilbrannan; currently with Celtic hotshots Stone Row)... He will be subbing for Joel on most of our gigs until Joel is ready to return (we're currently looking at February).
Glenn adds his own special "thing"-- you'll have to come check us out to find out what it is!
Merry Christmas, God Bless, and Good Blues...
GJ
Once again, it's been a month since we've posted anything new for you here; the time (and this past year) have really flown by. LOTS has happened in the past few months-- personnel changes, some great gigs, everyone having extremely busy schedules (I was involved in three major Christmas shows this year, Bruce was in two, and Joel hosted one as well-- Who has time for shopping?)... Plus, the Juke family is getting ready for another addition (and I'm not talking about a new den). We've been moving from one hectic event to another, and are looking forward to a little break.
We may have several items of _big_ news for 2006, but we'll let you know about those things as soon as we can confirm them. Right now, we'd appreciate your support at all of our live events (sign-up for our e-mail list at www.MightyNoStars.com for all of the latest gig info).
One news item for our No-Stars fans-- Joel Thomas, master of the electric bass, will be taking a short medical hiatus from the band (he's ok, but needs a little recuperation time). While we await his return, please welcome another multi-talented individual to the bandstand, vocalist/guitarist/keyboardist/songwriter/engineer/producer (are we out of breath yet?), old friend, and _bassist_ Glenn Bernardis (formerly of Mr. Funny and Kilbrannan; currently with Celtic hotshots Stone Row)... He will be subbing for Joel on most of our gigs until Joel is ready to return (we're currently looking at February).
Glenn adds his own special "thing"-- you'll have to come check us out to find out what it is!
Merry Christmas, God Bless, and Good Blues...
GJ
Monday, November 28, 2005
Opening a can of Blues Smackerel...
Your Mighty No-Star Blues Band will be opening up for Chicago's own Howard & The White Boys at the Lafayette Tap Room in Buffalo, NY, on their return trip to the Nickel City in February... Stay-tuned for more details as they become available.
GJ
GJ
Long Time No Post...
Sorry, we've been quite busy over the last several weeks.
Here are a few No-Stars News items and fancy-schmancy bullet points, to wit:
* Congratulations to the Mary Haitz Band from Rochester, New York, on winning the 2005 "Memphis Bound" competition held by the WNY Blues Society at the Lafayette Tap Room in Buffalo, NY. Mary and the band will travel down to Memphis to represent Western New York in the International Blues Challenge at the end of January. Go get 'em, boys and girls...
* Congratulations also go out to all of the nominees and winners in the "Blues" categories in the Buffalo/WNY Music Awards this year, including our own former sax-player, Hollywood Jack Prybylski (not "Prysbalski"... Don't you just love Buffalo journalism?)...
* On a sad note, our drummer of the past two years, Bill O'Shea, is stepping back into semi-retirement. You can still see him subbing occassionally with your Mighty No-Stars, but Bill wanted to spend more time with his family and his healthcare business, which we more than understand. Bill, you are a rock-solid, laser-focused rhythm machine, and a great human being
and we will miss you tremendously... Bill will be with the band full-time to the end of January. Be sure to stop out to our "Goodbye Bill" party at the Tap Room on the 27th of January.
* On a happy note, Gregg Juke & The Mighty No-Star Blues Band will become one of the "house bands" at the famed Alternative Brews blues club (Sheridan Dr. in Amherst, NY). Your Mighty No-Stars will be appearing at Alt-Brews on the first Friday of every month from January to June 2006.
* New dates are coming in... Check the website or sign-up for our e-mail list at www.mightynostars.com, so you don't miss any of the happening No-Stars concert action!
GJ
Here are a few No-Stars News items and fancy-schmancy bullet points, to wit:
* Congratulations to the Mary Haitz Band from Rochester, New York, on winning the 2005 "Memphis Bound" competition held by the WNY Blues Society at the Lafayette Tap Room in Buffalo, NY. Mary and the band will travel down to Memphis to represent Western New York in the International Blues Challenge at the end of January. Go get 'em, boys and girls...
* Congratulations also go out to all of the nominees and winners in the "Blues" categories in the Buffalo/WNY Music Awards this year, including our own former sax-player, Hollywood Jack Prybylski (not "Prysbalski"... Don't you just love Buffalo journalism?)...
* On a sad note, our drummer of the past two years, Bill O'Shea, is stepping back into semi-retirement. You can still see him subbing occassionally with your Mighty No-Stars, but Bill wanted to spend more time with his family and his healthcare business, which we more than understand. Bill, you are a rock-solid, laser-focused rhythm machine, and a great human being
and we will miss you tremendously... Bill will be with the band full-time to the end of January. Be sure to stop out to our "Goodbye Bill" party at the Tap Room on the 27th of January.
* On a happy note, Gregg Juke & The Mighty No-Star Blues Band will become one of the "house bands" at the famed Alternative Brews blues club (Sheridan Dr. in Amherst, NY). Your Mighty No-Stars will be appearing at Alt-Brews on the first Friday of every month from January to June 2006.
* New dates are coming in... Check the website or sign-up for our e-mail list at www.mightynostars.com, so you don't miss any of the happening No-Stars concert action!
GJ
Tuesday, October 04, 2005
Blues & The Abstract Truth
New Blog Alert!
Coming soon to an Internet web-address near you (specifically: www.VeritasBlues.blogspot.com)-- Watch for Blues & The Abstract Truth, a place for journalistic and not-so journalistic ramblings about the Blues, Jazz, R&B, and great music of all kinds (and whatever else I dad-gum please).
Initially, this will be a place to post re-prints of my column from the now-defunct Blues portal GotTheBlues.com, but I'm sure we'll eventually venture into all kinds of musical, and perhaps not-so-musical topics.
It seems like someone beat me to the URL of my choice, so I guess it pays to know one or two words in Latin (Et Tu, Brute?).
Check back soon; it's a work-in-progress...
Coming soon to an Internet web-address near you (specifically: www.VeritasBlues.blogspot.com)-- Watch for Blues & The Abstract Truth, a place for journalistic and not-so journalistic ramblings about the Blues, Jazz, R&B, and great music of all kinds (and whatever else I dad-gum please).
Initially, this will be a place to post re-prints of my column from the now-defunct Blues portal GotTheBlues.com, but I'm sure we'll eventually venture into all kinds of musical, and perhaps not-so-musical topics.
It seems like someone beat me to the URL of my choice, so I guess it pays to know one or two words in Latin (Et Tu, Brute?).
Check back soon; it's a work-in-progress...
More Media Blitz
As far as TV appearances and media mentions, your Mighty No-Stars were all about that over the past weekend.
Thanks to channels 2, 4, and 7 for mentioning the "Blues for the Delta" benefit on the news, thanks to Pete Anderson and the Crossroads crew on Adelphia 13 for making Joel and I look great on the program, and thanks to John Discullo at WKBW for helping us to get a mention on PM Buffalo. Also, Joel's appearance on WIVB's By The People ran twice over the past week!
We'd like to hire Gina as our permanent publicist/PR miracle worker, if ever we get a budget-line for such a necessary extravagance from the Mighty CFO...
We got home from our early gig on Friday night just in time to catch some of our appearance on the local broadcast of Off Beat Cinema. Thanks to John, Maxwell, Zelda, and the friendly folks at Spot Coffee for making this a great experience...
Watch the news, read the paper, listen to the radio, and check the web for more Mighty Cameo's by the band...
Thanks to channels 2, 4, and 7 for mentioning the "Blues for the Delta" benefit on the news, thanks to Pete Anderson and the Crossroads crew on Adelphia 13 for making Joel and I look great on the program, and thanks to John Discullo at WKBW for helping us to get a mention on PM Buffalo. Also, Joel's appearance on WIVB's By The People ran twice over the past week!
We'd like to hire Gina as our permanent publicist/PR miracle worker, if ever we get a budget-line for such a necessary extravagance from the Mighty CFO...
We got home from our early gig on Friday night just in time to catch some of our appearance on the local broadcast of Off Beat Cinema. Thanks to John, Maxwell, Zelda, and the friendly folks at Spot Coffee for making this a great experience...
Watch the news, read the paper, listen to the radio, and check the web for more Mighty Cameo's by the band...
Thank You from the bottom of the Delta...
Friends of the Delta;
Thank You for all you did to support the “Blues for the Delta” concert event and benefit fundraiser at the Lafayette Tap Room on Sunday. All of your support, patronage, donations, volunteerism, and performances made the event a great success, and we are indebted to you for your efforts.
We will not have a final total, or be able to deliver the funds, until sometime early next week, but we raised quite a bit of money, and with a matching grant program that we can access through Verizon, we should reach a total of $5,000 that was raised for our two charities, the Salvation Army and the SPCA of Louisiana. It was great to hear Major Polarek of the SA talk about what they’ve been doing down south, and what your money and efforts will be going to support. Also, if you watched the news last night, you might have seen the story on some of the rescued animals from New Orleans that have been brought to this area by the SPCA.
We’re not sure what the situation will be like next year in Mississippi and Louisiana, but we’re sure that some well-deserving charity can always use some moral and financial support, so there is some talk of making this an annual event. We’ll keep you posted, and again, thank you for your generosity.
To all of the musicians and performers that dedicated your time and talents to the cause, Thank You. You did an extraordinary job, and we were blessed by your gifts and abilities, as well as your flexibility. Special mention goes out to Speedy Parker (aka Gary Sterlace), who not only played with his band, but filled-in on the fly for John Martz, who was unable to attend at the last minute.
I must take a moment to apologize to the artists who came out for the All-Star Jam set; the show was off-schedule and overtime for a variety of reasons which were out of our control, but I was personally responsible for scheduling, and I should have cut the Mighty-No-Stars’ set short, rather than have kept you waiting for us to finish up. My sincerest apologies, and please understand that this is the first show of this magnitude (as far as a multi-band event) that we have promoted—looking back on the punches we had to roll with over a 14-hour day, I thought things went pretty well, but I do apologize for the lateness of the start time for the final set. You should know that the Blues Society was not involved in the band scheduling process, so please don’t be upset with anybody from the society—the members are volunteers that work tirelessly to promote great music in WNY, and we appreciate them for it. Mea Culpa, we live and learn, and I hope you can forgive your humble stage-manager in-training.
Again, for all of our supporters, volunteers, and those that donated their time, product, or labor, thank you beyond our ability to express. In the words of musician and former radio-host John Werick, we are “eternally grateful.”
Gregg Juke
“Blues for the Delta”
Nocturnal Productions/Blue Buffalo Records
Gregg Juke & The Mighty No-Star Blues Band
Thank You for all you did to support the “Blues for the Delta” concert event and benefit fundraiser at the Lafayette Tap Room on Sunday. All of your support, patronage, donations, volunteerism, and performances made the event a great success, and we are indebted to you for your efforts.
We will not have a final total, or be able to deliver the funds, until sometime early next week, but we raised quite a bit of money, and with a matching grant program that we can access through Verizon, we should reach a total of $5,000 that was raised for our two charities, the Salvation Army and the SPCA of Louisiana. It was great to hear Major Polarek of the SA talk about what they’ve been doing down south, and what your money and efforts will be going to support. Also, if you watched the news last night, you might have seen the story on some of the rescued animals from New Orleans that have been brought to this area by the SPCA.
We’re not sure what the situation will be like next year in Mississippi and Louisiana, but we’re sure that some well-deserving charity can always use some moral and financial support, so there is some talk of making this an annual event. We’ll keep you posted, and again, thank you for your generosity.
To all of the musicians and performers that dedicated your time and talents to the cause, Thank You. You did an extraordinary job, and we were blessed by your gifts and abilities, as well as your flexibility. Special mention goes out to Speedy Parker (aka Gary Sterlace), who not only played with his band, but filled-in on the fly for John Martz, who was unable to attend at the last minute.
I must take a moment to apologize to the artists who came out for the All-Star Jam set; the show was off-schedule and overtime for a variety of reasons which were out of our control, but I was personally responsible for scheduling, and I should have cut the Mighty-No-Stars’ set short, rather than have kept you waiting for us to finish up. My sincerest apologies, and please understand that this is the first show of this magnitude (as far as a multi-band event) that we have promoted—looking back on the punches we had to roll with over a 14-hour day, I thought things went pretty well, but I do apologize for the lateness of the start time for the final set. You should know that the Blues Society was not involved in the band scheduling process, so please don’t be upset with anybody from the society—the members are volunteers that work tirelessly to promote great music in WNY, and we appreciate them for it. Mea Culpa, we live and learn, and I hope you can forgive your humble stage-manager in-training.
Again, for all of our supporters, volunteers, and those that donated their time, product, or labor, thank you beyond our ability to express. In the words of musician and former radio-host John Werick, we are “eternally grateful.”
Gregg Juke
“Blues for the Delta”
Nocturnal Productions/Blue Buffalo Records
Gregg Juke & The Mighty No-Star Blues Band
Friday, September 23, 2005
"Blues for the Delta" Update and Gig Info
Your Mighty No-Stars are looking forward to entertaining you again this week... Here's several ways to catch the band in action:
1) Check us out tonight (Friday, September 23) at Alternative Brews on Sheridan Dr. in Amherst (6-10)
2) Come down to Pearl Street in Buffalo next Friday (September 30th) after the Sabres game to see the band play two sets live (approximate start time 10:15)
3) Turn on your telly at 1am on Friday, September 30th to channel 7/WKBW TV for "Off Beat Cinema" (Gregg Juke & The Mighty No-Star Blues Band appear as featured special guests)
Here's something to get excited about... Confirmed special guests for the "All-Star Jam" set at the Blues for the Delta concert include:
*Donna Rose & Jimmy Wozniak
*Mark Winsick
*J.J. Moscato
*Benny Provenzano of Flyin' Blind
*Tony Blasting of Bleeding Hearts
*LeeRon Zydeco
*Speedy Parker
**More To Come!!!!
This is going to be a really special night of music for a great cause. We're really hoping that you can be at the Tap Room on October 2nd!
GJ
1) Check us out tonight (Friday, September 23) at Alternative Brews on Sheridan Dr. in Amherst (6-10)
2) Come down to Pearl Street in Buffalo next Friday (September 30th) after the Sabres game to see the band play two sets live (approximate start time 10:15)
3) Turn on your telly at 1am on Friday, September 30th to channel 7/WKBW TV for "Off Beat Cinema" (Gregg Juke & The Mighty No-Star Blues Band appear as featured special guests)
Here's something to get excited about... Confirmed special guests for the "All-Star Jam" set at the Blues for the Delta concert include:
*Donna Rose & Jimmy Wozniak
*Mark Winsick
*J.J. Moscato
*Benny Provenzano of Flyin' Blind
*Tony Blasting of Bleeding Hearts
*LeeRon Zydeco
*Speedy Parker
**More To Come!!!!
This is going to be a really special night of music for a great cause. We're really hoping that you can be at the Tap Room on October 2nd!
GJ
Wednesday, September 21, 2005
Blues for the Delta
Here's an event happening on Sunday, October 2nd that you can't afford to miss...
The press release should say it all, but contact me if you need more info. We'd really like to see you there...
For Immediate Release:
On Sunday, October 2nd from 4pm-11pm, The Lafayette Tap Room, Nocturnal Productions, the Blues Society of WNY, the SPCA serving Erie County, and the Salvation Army will present "Blues for the Delta," a benefit concert event for victims of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans and Mississippi.
The Lafayette Tap Room will host this star-studded Blues event, and 100% of proceeds will go towards relief activities related to the devastation wrought by Katrina. Proceeds designated for the SPCA will be sent directly to the SPCA in Louisiana, while proceeds dedicated for the Salvation Army will support current relief efforts in the flood-stricken areas.
Raffles and various additional fundraising will occur throughout the day.
Confirmed acts include the Speedy Parker Band, Gregg Juke & The Mighty No-Star Blues Band, The Patti Parks Band, and soloist John Martz. The event will also feature an end-of-the-evening "All-Star" jam set, showcasing some of Western New York's well-known Blues, R&B, and Roots talent.
Sponsorship and support provided by Insty-Prints at the Airport Plaza and Sunset Fruits & Vegetables.
For more information, contact Gregg at Nocturnal Productions:
Gregg Juke
Nocturnal Productions/Blue Buffalo Records
Gregg Juke & The Mighty No-Star Blues Band
(716) 696-6758
RhythmGJ@Hotmail.com
Gregg@MightyNoStars.com
=================Band Schedule=====================
4pm-5pm Acoustic Soloist John Martz
5:15pm-6:15pm Speedy Parker
6:15pm-6:45pm John Martz (backroom stage)
7pm-8pm The Patti Parks Band
8:15pm-9:15pm Gregg Juke & The Mighty No-Star Blues Band
9:30pm-11:15pm???? All-Star Jam (The Mighty No-Star Blues Band as nucleus of house band w/very special guests)
The press release should say it all, but contact me if you need more info. We'd really like to see you there...
For Immediate Release:
On Sunday, October 2nd from 4pm-11pm, The Lafayette Tap Room, Nocturnal Productions, the Blues Society of WNY, the SPCA serving Erie County, and the Salvation Army will present "Blues for the Delta," a benefit concert event for victims of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans and Mississippi.
The Lafayette Tap Room will host this star-studded Blues event, and 100% of proceeds will go towards relief activities related to the devastation wrought by Katrina. Proceeds designated for the SPCA will be sent directly to the SPCA in Louisiana, while proceeds dedicated for the Salvation Army will support current relief efforts in the flood-stricken areas.
Raffles and various additional fundraising will occur throughout the day.
Confirmed acts include the Speedy Parker Band, Gregg Juke & The Mighty No-Star Blues Band, The Patti Parks Band, and soloist John Martz. The event will also feature an end-of-the-evening "All-Star" jam set, showcasing some of Western New York's well-known Blues, R&B, and Roots talent.
Sponsorship and support provided by Insty-Prints at the Airport Plaza and Sunset Fruits & Vegetables.
For more information, contact Gregg at Nocturnal Productions:
Gregg Juke
Nocturnal Productions/Blue Buffalo Records
Gregg Juke & The Mighty No-Star Blues Band
(716) 696-6758
RhythmGJ@Hotmail.com
Gregg@MightyNoStars.com
=================Band Schedule=====================
4pm-5pm Acoustic Soloist John Martz
5:15pm-6:15pm Speedy Parker
6:15pm-6:45pm John Martz (backroom stage)
7pm-8pm The Patti Parks Band
8:15pm-9:15pm Gregg Juke & The Mighty No-Star Blues Band
9:30pm-11:15pm???? All-Star Jam (The Mighty No-Star Blues Band as nucleus of house band w/very special guests)
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