- A Reason to Smile

Audio Diner

"The Greasy Spoon of Music"

Audio Diner is Kevin Friedly and David Newman from Indianapolis, IN. Dave and Kevin have been playing together since 1976 in various bands from "Foundations" to "Opera," "Synthesis," "Hambone 'N' Gravy," "Guise with Ties" and now "Audio Diner." Audio Diner has many guest musicians who participate in the Diner depending on the type of show desired. Audio Diner performs a variety of music from 60s and 70s Rock and Roll and Folk to Blues and Country.

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Oct 25, 2008 6:00 pm

Kevin Runs Sound for Stephen Bishop

Oct 31, 2008 7:00 pm

Bud's Tavern - Audio Diner

Nov 15, 2008 8:00 pm

Knights of Columbus

Nov 21, 2008 8:00 pm

Bud's Tavern - Audio Diner

Dec 19, 2008 7:00 pm

Audio Diner Annual Downtown Carolling

May 1, 2009 11:00 pm

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Palkuti Kentucky Derby Party

A Reason to Smile

By: Kent Knorr

This release was heavily anticipated by many fans of music. 37 years in the making. This is the album that was trapped and buried inside Brian Wilson’s head (and bed for that matter) for all these years. This is the follow-up to the classic “Pet Sounds” album that never materialized. “Smile” has been a widely reported cause of Brian’s insanity, paranoia, and schizophrenia. So while this album has been widely anticipated, this reviewer finds it a totally unexpected joy. Any album with this much history can never live up to the hype. Or so I thought.

From the opening vocal harmonies of “Our Prayer/Gee” it becomes obvious that the listener is about to hear something special. The opening track is like a gathering of California Angels. This album then flows through 47 minutes of complex arrangements that seem nearly effortless. Layers and layers of sounds fill the listener’s ears. The vocal harmonies seem to dance on the ear drums. The musical movements hint at equal parts classic Beach Boys and classic Bach. The combination of whistles, harpsichords, bells, guitars, horns, and complex sound structure remind us of an era of psychedelic music long gone. There is an ebb and flow of tunes that resemble the movement of waves on the beach.

Most of us hope that hidden deep inside our soul is a hidden moment of genius waiting to escape. But to know that you are carrying something as astonishingly amazing as “Smile” in your heart and head for 37 years would be a burden that would not be easily handled. This album is truly an amazing work that is just as exciting in 2004 as it would have been had it been recorded and released in 1967. Never mind that this album wasn’t released until now. It is a gift that fans and casual observers of the Beach Boy’s or Brian Wilson will enjoy.

I find it inspiring that an artist can carry a dream for 37 years and from that dream grow something so beautiful. If we all are able to envision something great and spend the time and magnitude of dedication that it takes to create and see a project to completion, then there may be no limit to the splendor that humanity can create.

In simplest terms this Album is an instant classic. Whether you have dismissed the Beach Boys as a surf and car band or dismissed Brian Wilson as a misguided soul, you will not be disappointed. This is the album that Brian needed to record. This is Brian’s gift to fans of great music. In one package you have a man’s declaration of independence, America’s answer to Sgt. Pepper, and a sound track that will serve as an inspiration for musicians for generations. Enjoy this CD for both its simplicity and complexities.

News

"Just Jill and Joe" Release First CD
Click image for full-size view Jill Phillips and Joe Cunningham have released their first CD, "Just Jill and Joe." The CD will be available at any of their numerous shows scheduled for the fall season. See their website www.justjillandjoe.com for more details. Sun, September 14, 2008

"Just Jill and Joe" Return to "Lazy Daze" for outdoor, afternoon show
Click image for full-size view "Just Jill and Joe" return to "Lazy Daze" coffee house for an afternoon show on June 21, 2008 from 1 to 2:30pm. Drop in and give them your support. Sun, September 14, 2008

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Image(s) of the Month

AeroPhillips

Band member Jill Phillips and her hubby Mike hangin' with Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith.

That's My Dad!

Colleen, Kevin's daughter, joined the band at the Carmel Concert Series 2007 to fill in for Jill who was visiting Ireland. Colleen did a great job and is now the permanent fill-in vocalist.

Photo by: Greg Dunn

A Rare Moment...Joe Smiling

Joe joined Kevin and Michelle at the Lazy Daze Coffee Shop on thursday night May 10 to help Jeff and the Lazy Daze crew welcome Starbucks to the neighborhood.

Photo by: Greg Dunn