| Vito on TalkRadioX |
| Thu, Jan. 17 2008 |
| Vito had a blast with TalkRadioX host Antubert tonight. Great interview exploring the controversy surrounding the "Farmer's Daughter" song. Vito explained that he was the performer on the recording that was used as the backdrop for the fantastic cartoon that Antubert created a few years ago. Visit the store page to see what products have been added. Keep an eye out for future additions. |
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| PoTown Does Motown! |
| Thu, Jan. 17 2008 |
| CIBONEY CAFÉ ANNOUNCES
Ciboney located at 189 Church St. Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
845-486-4690
BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND
MOTOWN NIGHT SAT Jan 26, 2008
SHOW STARTS at 8:00PM
“STARRING MATT JORDAN’S,
“PoTown Does MOTOWN 10 PIECE BAND”
Vito Petroccitto joins Greg Douglas, Steve Digiavani, Debbie Major, Matt Jordan, Vinnie Legierre, Chris Difrancesco, Linda Shell just to name a few of the all stars!
IF YOU MISSED IT the first time, you can’t MISS THIS TIME!
DANCE TO YOUR OLD FAVORITE SONGS FROM THE GREATS LIKE JAMES BROWN, KOOL AND THE GANG, SAM & DAVE, Supremes, ETC.
Tickets are available at Ciboney!
THE LAST CONCERT WAS A SELL OUT, AND THIS ONE WILL SELL OUT EVEN FASTER!
DON’T BE DISAPPOINTED. |
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| Long time no speak! |
| Tue, Jan. 8 2008 |
| The Farmer's Daughter/Assumption song is now available in am mp3 download here at iamvito.com on the store page. Just click on the headline above for more info! The song is very popular in the Midwest and Canada thanks to stations like WAPL in Wisconsin. Here is a message from WAPL's Rick (from the "Rick and Len" morning show:
Dear Vito:
How awesome to hear from you.
About 7 or 8 years ago a radio colleague of mine passed along to me a
tape of your song. He received the tape from another radio colleague
at another station who no doubt received it from another colleague at
another station, etc. It wasn't appropriate for the station he was
working on and thought it was more suitable for our station. He
didn't know the title or the artist.
My then on-air partner, John and I were both most amused by it and
while we didn't often air comedy songs decided to give it an airing.
Not having a title, John referred to it as "the assuming song"
because you assumed you knew what the next line would be. Suddenly,
we started getting dozens of requests for The Assuming Song.
Not a week goes by without us still receiving requests for it or
inquires about the title and artist or where the can buy it. Somebody
called even this morning asking "who does that dirty song you guys
play sometimes"? Sadly, I've never been able to answer the question.
On several occasions I've "Googled" the lyrics in an effort to find
the title and artist but all that ever came back was The Assuming Song.
A few months ago, a listener e-mailed me with a link to a Youtube
video set to the song. There it was referred to as The Assumption
Song and was credited to the Arrogant Worms. I did a little research
and it seemed obvious to me that the Arrogant Worms were not, in
fact, the actual artists any more than The Assuming Song was the actual title.
I'm so excited that we now know the actual title and artist and can
as you say, "give credit where credit is due". It was certainly never
our intention to co-op the credit for ourselves (although, I have
seen it attributed to The WAPL Morning Show on a Dutch web site).
You'll be happy to know that each year we host Radiothons for
Children's Hospital and for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and
your song has raised thousands of dollars for those organizations
from listeners who donated the cash just to have it played during the
Radiothon. I think you might be only second the Metallica in money
raised through requests.
We'd love to chat with you on the air about the song some morning if
you're available. Please let me know.
Rick McNeal |
|
| REcording Workshop at Ashokan |
| Sat, Sep. 22 2007 |
| Hi everyone! Are you excited about coming to our first AutumnSongs recording intensive? Join us for a long weekend look at how to record at home, how to work in a studio, how to hire a team to help you make a great record and much more! Mark Dann, Vito Petrocitto, Dave Cook and myself, Penny Nichols will teach you everything you ever wanted to know in a weekend about recording. You can even make a demo if you so choose! You can register online at www.summersongs.com . There's only room for 30 people so get your deposit in soon! AutumnSongs will take place at Ashokan Friday October 26th to Monday, October 29th. See you there!
Dave Cook:
Mixing 101: Getting the most out of your recordings
Thanks to the advent of low cost, home recording equipment, virtually every songwriter can get
their songs recorded in the comfort of their own bedroom with relative ease. However, when it
comes to mixing those tracks and trying to make things sound like professional CD's, many
home recordists find it a frustrating challenge to say the least. In this two-hour workshop,
veteran sound engineer Dave Cook will shed some light on this subject with discussion,
demonstration and hands-on class participation. Topics covered will include equalization,
compression, creating space in the mix, optimizing levels, and basic mix concepts. Bring copies
of your own mixes for critiquing and suggestions.
An Introduction to Pro Tools
Pro Tools, the industry standard in recording technology, has become commonplace not only in
professional recording studios but also in many a musicians' home studio. Whether you're
thinking about purchasing a system of your own, or already have one, this class will get you
started or help answer some questions that you may be have and didn't know who to ask. Pro
Tools expert Dave Cook will share his 10+ years of operating Pro Tools with you using his own
portable system. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own systems if they are using
laptops. We will cover Pro Tools basics as well as techniques and tricks that can help you work
more efficiently and have more fun.
Vito Petrocitto:
Understanding Pre-Production (being prepared will save you money)-
This course covers all aspects of getting you and your music ready to record in the studio. Whether it's a full-blown studio project or a demo, this course will help you be as prepared as possible when you're booking studio time. We will cover mental and emotional preparedness, red light fever (studio fright/intimidation), and the many differences between performing, live, and studio performance. Essentially, this course will help you save time and money in the studio.
Picking Your Team Wisely (how to hire when recording)-
This course will help you to understand the roles of the studio, the recording engineer, session players, the producer, and what to look for when choosing the right combination for your recording project. Hiring musicians and technicians can be a daunting decision for a band or solo artist Sometimes we don't even know what can be available to us! We will explore the advantages of having professionals, such as a voice coach, along for some of the journey to help your session go as smooth as possible. Learn how organizing a team can make your recording project's end result shine!
Mark Dann:
Recording Vocals
In most music genres, vocals are a key element. This class will deal with all aspects of getting the best vocals possible. Subjects will include mic choice, mic technique, recording of multiple takes, comping a master vocal track, pitch correction, etc., as well as placement of the vocal in the final mix. Detailing of go-to techniques, and how to avoid common pitfalls.
Transferring Recordings From A Professional Studio To Home And Back
With the advent of home recording systems, it is now possible to work on recording projects in multiple places. These places might include other home studios of friends, professional recording studios, as well as cool locations (choir in a church, grand piano at school, etc.). One very common scenario that will be discussed will be cutting band tracks in a studio, taking them home to do vocals and other overdubs, then returning to the "mothership" for final mixing. Another common one is using the internet to send session files to others for their collaboration. Various other common scenarios will be outlined and discussed.
Go to www.summersongs.com to reserve your spot! |
|
| Four Guys Rock "Festa Italiana" |
| Sun, Sep. 9 2007 |
| Yeah baby! The Four Guys in Disguise rocked out last night at the Italian Center in Poughkeepsie. Great audience, and they were pleased to see Vito solo on the trombone. A rainy night full of thunder and lightning but that didn't stop the crowd from having a great time! |
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| Hyde Park Library Review 1 |
| Thu, Apr. 5 2007 |
| Hi Vito, just wanted to let you know how much we enjoyed your show last night. I thought your song selection was ideal for this crowd - I particularly enjoyed your song about the Truck and about spending Sunday with your family. Lois, who is an unrepentant Yankee fan, really enjoyed your Yankee tribute as well as the song you wrote about your wife. I do think you should give some consideration to writing and performing a disk geared for children. Really like the way you involve the audience in your performance. Please keep us on your contact list as we would love to come again for a repeat performance. See you soon, Harold |
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| 2007 Underway! |
| Sun, Mar. 11 2007 |
| Hello all!
Vito is recovering nicely from a surgery he started the year off with and is now returning to what he knows best....his music. Four Guys "current" and "original" about to be getting busy around town (check shows page for listings), and Vito will be performing a rare solo show (sold out) at the Hyde Park Library's "Hyde Park River Songs Concert Series" this Saturday! The promoters of the show said it was the fastest sell out at the venue in three years!
Vito is still working on his solo effort "En Vito Veritas" inbetween other projects he's been working with. His playing can now be heard round the world on various recordings! However his new CD should be released before fall of 07.
Vito will also be involved in a new 10 piece motown band that will be making their public debut at the Ciboney Cafe in Poughkeepsie on March 24th, dancing will be the focus! (see shows page for details)
Filming is just about to begin on Vito's long awaited instructional DVD. The DVD will include subjects he's been covering in his classes/workshops he's been teaching around the U.S.A.
Catch Vito soon, and make sure you go up and say hello! He doesn't bite. |
|
| Year is coming to a close! |
| Thu, Nov. 16 2006 |
| Hello all!
Just wanted to let everyone know about New Years Eve with "Four Guys In Disguise" (Michael,Paul,Eric and Vito Version) Live at The Skytop Steakhouse and Brewery in Kingston, NY 845-340-4277. Book a room at the Skytop Motel, they have double occupancies starting at 59.95! |
|
| Vito with the Professor Louie again! |
| Thu, Nov. 16 2006 |
| Vito sat in once again with Professor Louie and the Crowmatix tonight. Live on TV , cable access channel 23 out of Port Jervis! A show called Keepin County Strong!
A fine acoustic set was delivered by the Professor and his Crowmatix! Hit the link above for more dish on the Crowmatix, they've got a brand new Holiday CD available through their site! |
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| The "Original" Four Guys in Disguise! |
| Mon, Oct. 16 2006 |
| The "original" Four Guys in Disguise will be performing two exclusive shows in the coming weeks. The first is Saturday October 21st at Copperfields in Millbrook, NY for Copperfield's 23rd anniversary celebration. Call 845-677-8188 for more info and reservations.
Then the "original" Four will be performing at Juniors Lounge in the Town of Poughkeepsie, NY on Saturday November 4th!
Be there, be square! |
|
| Vito on "Rockin Roots" web radio! |
| Mon, Sep. 25 2006 |
| Look for a Vito appearance in the next 7 or 8 days on the web radio show "Rock N Roots" , visit the link below and keep an eye out for details on how to catch the broadcast on the internet. Vito was Tom Boyd's guest for the show. The show's subject? Music on Music. It was indeed very interesting to say the least. You must check it out! |
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| What a Summer! |
| Wed, Aug. 23 2006 |
| Hi All! What a great summer we've been having. Doesn't look like the action will be slowing any time soon. Studio 1061 is getting pretty busy with various projects and the latest project is due for release very soon. "Holland Thompson and Tooch" will be releasing their debut CD this fall. Vito has just come off the road with Professor Louie and the Cromatix. Touring to the Mid West and into Canada. Gigs went real well, and Vito had the time of his life. Then it was on to Summersongs for the all time greatest songwriting camp! Vito taught his infamous "Guitar for Lost Souls" class and people became un-lost as a result! Vito has begun working on a DVD that will capture the essense of Vito's instructional talents.Vito rehearsed with the "original" Four Guys in Disguise this past Monday night. It seems they're preparing for some gigs this fall! Be on the look out for the "Original 4 Guys". See you at the Hyde Park steakhouse and Brewery this Friday where the current 4 Guys will bring on their acoustic/electric eclectic show ! C'mon down! |
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| Vito on Tour w/Professor Louie and the Crowmatix |
| Sun, Jul. 16 2006 |
| Vito is looking forward to visiting parts of the mid west and Canada with the Professor this August. One of the stops includes the Toledo Ribs Festival where the Professor is the headling act ! There will also be stops in Cleveland and Detroit! |
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| HT and T about to release their debut CD |
| Sun, Jul. 16 2006 |
| Holland, Thompson, and Tooch has just wrapped up their first CD at Studio 1061. Expect a release in August. Maybe just in time before the group attends Summersongs the week of August 5th. This Hudson Valley Trio works very hard on making music and their efforts pay off in a huge way. The CD will include 13 wonderfully written songs. Keep an eye out for this group because in a live performance they can sound just like their brand new CD! |
|
| Woodstock Blues Festival w/UNCLE FUNK! |
| Tue, May. 30 2006 |
| Wow, what a great Memorial Day weekend! Sunday 1pm Uncle Funk ,what a time! Joe Beesmer on guitar/vox, Mike Winfield on Bass/vox, Randy Ciarlante on Drums/vox and Vito played the blues like nobody's business!
A great set with the smell of BBQ in the air! This quartet was on fire , having a blast with a crowd in the upstairs at the "Black Bear" , two guitars smoking and a rhythm section so in the pocket!
"Driving Wheel" kicked off the bluesy 75 minute set with Mike singing! Vito had the crowd singing along with NRBQ's "12 Bar Blues" , man o man you should have been there! Randy pulled off a rowsing rendition of "Jellyroll"
Last but not least Uncle Funk himself, Joe Beesmer was screaming on his Epiphone hollow body! |
|
| Summer is Sizzlin! |
| Wed, May. 24 2006 |
| Hey Y'all,
Vito is busy as busy gets for this 2006 summer season. From his new solo act "O Solo VITO" to his new group "TRIOVITO" and his work with "Professor Louie and the Cromatix" you've got to keep an eye on his schedule (go to shows page). Save the date for July 15th, "FRIENDS FEST II" is coming to Casperkill Country Club in Poughkeepsie, NY! |
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| Introducing "TrioVito" |
| Wed, May. 3 2006 |
| That's right. "TrioVito" is born. Upright Bass, Hand Drum/Percussion, Acoustic Gee-tar! Playing laid back tunes in a Leon Redbon-ish fashion. Sit back and relax, don't worry about hearing any "wedding music" or any "elevator music", or any top 40 "dance" tunes. If you want to talk with friends, have an espresso or something like it, there you go! It will be Vito untamed, uninterupted and having fun. TrioVito will be playing a great mix of music including way more original homegrown tunage! Sound good? Look for some shows coming to a listening club near you, and watch out you 40 and 50 somethings.........there might be some early start times on these events. You ask for it? You got it! TRIOVITO COMING SOON! |
|
| Whassup? |
| Tue, Mar. 28 2006 |
| Hello All! Well , it's the end of March already and the year is off to a running start. The Four Guys in Disguise have been having some fun at their usual haunts (Skytop and Hyde Park Brewery/Steakhouse)..............................................Wanted: People to support "live" music. Vito has been noticing decreasing numbers at the gigs, not only for Four Guys but for ALL musical groups throughout the area! C'mon people, the musical world needs you, your local scene NEEDS YOU! Pick up an Enjoy (Poughkeepsie Journal) or a Pulse, or whatever paper's entertainment section you're used to, and go out and listen to some fine music! Music in this Hudson Valley is ALIVE and WELL! Don't rely on the "corporate guide/stepford wive" way of thinking! Don't be a number!................................................
SAVE THE DATE! ................Yes ladies and gents , save this date........................ Saturday July 15th for "Friends Fest 2". This gig is the follow up to last years successful gathering of great bands and great people from our area. Think of this as a gigantic class reunion (Roosevelt,Millbrook,Poughkeepsie,Spakenkill, etc.) that spans many high schools in the Hudson Valley. This years bands: The Moonshiners, Lost Dog Woody/Synergy, Witch Hunt, and many special guests. The Moonshiners confirmed are: Jeff Belding, Vito, Tony Petroccitto, Terry Ghee, Danny Sheehan, and Tom Cutten. Keep an eye on iamvito.com for more details!...........................................................
Vito joins Sloan Wainwright on her "spring fling" in Florida next month.........Also, Vito rehearsed with "Professor Louie and the Cromatix" last week. Maybe some things in the works?................................. Vito will also complete his first solo CD "En Vito Veritas" this year and he is working on his instructional DVD guitar teaching series. Look for a release in late summer for both......................... Vito continues to play the Babicz guitars, they're sweeeeeeeet! Check them out!........................ Four Guys will go back into the studio as well! Busy, Busy, and Busy................................
Oh Well, that's it for now, see you at the gigs! Check out the "shows" page. |
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| New Year off to a Great Start! |
| Sat, Jan. 7 2006 |
| What a great night at the Skytop Steakhouse and Brewery this past friday night! The 4 Guys (Vito, Paul Beretta, Eric Winter and Michael Del) were in rare form and put on a very exciting show. Vito had some nice folks sitting near him so he decided to put one of them to work! Handed a young lady his pick, and told her to play the solo (an old Elvin Bishop trick)! She was quite shy and nervous, but pulled off the stunt just fine! She did the pickin while Vito did the playin!
Garth Hudson of "The Band" also stopped by the gig. It was wonderful to see a living legend visit the 4 Guys gig! Garth told Vito "You guys have a great sound!". Garth is one of Vito's idols so Vito was indeed thrilled to say the least.
Vito pulled off a great version of Johnny Mercer's "Accentuate the Positive", and later led the Guys in an all out dance fever attack on the crowd!
I don't know, this could happen again this friday night, check the schedule and come on out! The 4 Guys were visited by Frank and Treena, definately the longest running 4 Guys fans in the house and it was great seeing them too!
Plenty of special activity planned for this year, Moonshiners action, maybe a reunion of Mike Torsone, Bobby and Mike Kemp along with Vito, just stay tuned to iamvito.com and you'll be in the know! Vito is looking forward to getting back together and making some fine music with some of his favorite people too, Bruce Wolfeil, Peter Levin, Sloan Wainwright and last but never least David Roth! |
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| Studio 1061 |
| Sun, Nov. 27 2005 |
| David Roth stopped by Studio 1061 last week and added harmonies to some of the Holland,Thompson, and Tooch session. H,T & T have also enlisted the help of Penny Nichols (vocal coaching/production). Studio 1061 out of control and having fun! |
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| Studio 1061 News! |
| Thu, May. 19 2005 |
| The Bruce Jenning's CD project has reached the home stretch! Bruce, Jim Lockard and Vito came up for air about two hours ago, after spending two days tracking for Bruce's first CD. The CD will be called "On Solid Ground". The CD looks like it will include 16 tunes from Bruce. You got to check it out.
10 hours straight in today's session! The hard work will definitely be worth it in the end. We hope to see a release somewhere before Summersongs (August)! Bruce and his songwriting have come a long way not to mention his studio prowess!
The "Holland, Thompson, and Tooch" (demo) CD project is running neck and neck with BJ. These folks are tight! They've recorded six great songs in about 11 hours time. Everything is sounding so good at "Studio 1061" which is now a 24 track digital facility!
Janie March is next!
It looks like Vito will be producing four CDs this summer. Including his very own, which will be due out in October! |
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| Spring Fling Rocked! |
| Mon, Apr. 18 2005 |
| Vito has returned from touring with the amazing Sloan Wainwright! Sloan's spring fling in Florida was a blast. From The Main Street Cafe in Homestead, to Miami, on to Sunrise for the Glades Edge House Concert, to Stuart, then on to Mt. Dora, Sarasota, to the good folks of Unity of Clearwater,and the Fogartyville Cafe in Bradenton. Turns out Vito ran into the former Mayor of Poughkeepsie at the Bradenton show! Small world. Hello and Thank you to all our Florida friends! |
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| This Weekend in Rock! |
| Sun, Mar. 27 2005 |
| Vito was back in action Friday night with the Four Guys in Disguise. The Brewery (Hyde Park, NY) was jumping. Some highlights include: The Jello Shot Girl! Ring of Fire! and of course "The Farmer's Daughter", what a wild time.
Then on Saturday, Vito had the great pleasure of sharing the bandstand with Matt Donahue (drummer extrodinaire), Joe "Uncle Funk" Beesmer, and the fabulous Levin brothers! Tony Levin delivered some incredible funky thunderous bass, and Pete Levin played the B3 Organ like a ringing a bell!
Joe Beesmer took charge early and led the quintet into some fine, energy charged funk and r&b favorites! Some terrific jams and a packed house at the Starr in Rhinebeck made for an explosive Easter Eve! Vito was in his glory and tells us that his hand is like brand new! |
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| Vito's Back! |
| Thu, Feb. 24 2005 |
| Alot going on with the V Man. He is currently producing Bruce Jennings first ever CD project at Studio 1061. Bruce Jennings is a great singer songwriter that hails from West Virginia. The Bruce Jennings CD is set for an August release. Getting ready to hit the road in April with Sloan Wainwright on her "spring fling" tour. Sloan's tour will cover southern Florida. Four Guys in Disguise is also about to re-surface in the Hudson Valley, there is word of their return to the Hyde Park Brewery, AND they will be performing the GRAND OPENING of the brand new "Skytop" in Kingston, NY.
Vito had the honor of teaching the "Performance Class" at Wintersongs (www.summersongs.com) , the weekend retreat for songwriters. What a blast! With his hand on the mend, he claims it feels better than before and he'll be playing better than ever too!
Looks like another Moonshiner reunion is planned within another reunion of friends from eras of old. July 16th in Millbrook, NY. Keep an eye on our web site for more details! Vito will also be releasing a DVD which will contain many great "Vito Moments", it will be available by summer, just watch the store for it! It will be a must have. |
|
| Happy New Year! |
| Tue, Jan. 4 2005 |
| Hi all! Whole lotta shakin goin on in the world of Vito.Several recording projects happening simultaniously including a fine young artist by the name of Genna Rose! If you've never heard of her just give it some time. This lady is full of talent, great voice, great songwriter. She is working on her first ever CD called "Spirit". Vito appears on several songs including "Who Could Ask For More" which is simply just Genna Rose and Vito (Vocal and Spanish Guitar) performing a Genna Rose song in Spanish. More recording projects on the way as 2005 begins, and talk of a Southern Florida Tour with the ever fabulous Sloan Wainwright! The Four Guys in Disguise are still at it as well, filling in all the cracks in Vito's schedule. Vito makes his first TV appearance of the year on "Poughkeepsie Live" , a local cable show which airs live Thursday night (1/6/05) at 7pm on channel 23 if you're in the Poughkeepsie area! |
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| Return of Mattress Man? |
| Mon, Sep. 13 2004 |
| While the talk of Mattress Man coming back to TV continues, Vito was back in front of the camera last week, this time as the "frantic husband" in yet another Croton Auto Park commercial. Vito was reunited with his on screen wife, his new friend Bob aka (Nick), and the good folks from Cablevision ( producer/director Amanda Popovich, and cameraman Scott). A good time was had by all. Will we ever see Vito on the big screen? Could be! |
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| The Gig of the Summer! |
| Sat, Aug. 28 2004 |
| Man O man! Fun was had by all last night at the Hyde Park Brewery. The reunion of the Moonshiners proved to be the hottest night of the summer. Vito joined his mentors onstage for the first time in 26 years. On guitars and vocals were Tony Petroccitto (as well as Trumpet), Vito (also played Bass, Piano, and made his Trombone debut), Jeff Belding (Vito's Guitar Teacher), Danny "Bat" Sheehan.
Jeff Belding also pulled out all the stops with his very fine Banjo playing. Terry Ghee went wild with his talents on fiddle, bass, vocals,and piano!
Tommy Cutten brought up the rear with his "rock steady" on the drums.Whatever feel you want, Tommy C makes the delivery every time!
Special guests included Nancy Walsh (vocalist), Vito Petroccitto Sr. (vocalist), and the biggest surprise to take the stage was none other than Willie Amrod! Willie cut a record some years ago that included monster musicians such as Pee Wee Ellis, Terry Adams (NRBQ), Joey Spampinato (NRBQ), Danny Sheehan, "Big Al" Anderson among others. The record was called "Children of the Earth".
Tony along with little brother Vito made up the "Brass Bros." horn section and when Willie got on the bass and took the wheel of this already incredible evening, it was all over. Talk about taking you higher! Whew!
The crowd was surprised to see Vito climb up onto the catwalk with trombone in hand to blast the room from above!
The highlight of the evening was the Moonshiners take on "Minnie the Moocher", Terry Ghee had the wild room in the palm of his hands, hidey hidey hidey ho!
Many Moonshiner fans from the old days in attendance as well as many brand new fans that were left wondering .......................................when will it all happen again?
Til next time,
Peace! |
|
| "It's been awhile" |
| Tue, Jul. 20 2004 |
| Hello all, due to a computer crash (to put it mildly) I've been out of touch for a while. There has been so much good stuff going on. Summersongs West was a blast , made so many new good friends there in Santa Barbara, Calif. I travelled the highways and skyways with Sloan Wainwright! Hanging out with Sloan was the coolest! She and I had a blast making our way through airport security with our guitar and carry ons!I was 4 for 4 in making it on to the plane with my guitar!
After the incredible workshop in Santa Barbara, we made our way back to LAX where we ran into Sean Astin! He called me "Mr. Frodo".........just kidding! Then it was back to NY.
Home again for a day or two (seemed like a day) and we we're off to Nova Scotia for the Stan Rogers Folk Festival! It was an honor for me to be part of Sloan's power trio for that weekend. Cadence Carroll completed the group.
We performed 6 or 7 times with one performance being on the "main stage"! Pretty Big stage I must say. I never heard my guitar through a PA like THAT before! There is so much to say about the time we had, but in the interest of time (busy summer here!) I'll just wrap it up by telling you all that I'm still very much on CLOUD 9! Please come out and support LIVE music! Thanks.
Talk soon,
Vito |
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| Vito Plays the Babicz Guitars! |
| Thu, May. 27 2004 |
| The folks at Babicz Guitars have given Vito two of there revolutionary acoustic guitars for him to play around the world!
Vito has fallen in love with the Babicz designs and Jeff (Carano) & Jeff (Babicz) of the Babicz Guitar Company are taking great care of Vito's guitar needs.
If you are interested in the Babicz Guitars just hit the link above , or just see a Vito LIVE PERFORMANCE! |
|
| Helping Hands Needed |
| Wed, May. 5 2004 |
| Press Release
Family Day Fundraiser
In Honor of Maria Heng
May 8, 2004
On March 6th a Town of Poughkeepsie resident named Maria Heng suffered burns to 75% of her body at her home on DeLaval Place. According to her Husband, Mark Hopkins, she walked past a lit candle on the floor setting her cotton dress on fire. The fire was extinguished in the couple's bath, but not before Ms. Heng had suffered extensive full-thickness burns. Ms. Heng is under intensive care at The Westchester Medical Center in Vallhalla awaiting grafts to restore her lost skin. While her condition remains highly critical, she has promise of recovery. Friends of Ms. Heng have organized a benefit fundraiser at The American Legion, Poughkeepsie, NY on May 8th between 2:00 pm - 8:00 pm. For more information please call Diane at 485-6259.
Maria is a five year resident of the Poughkeepsie area. She works as an internet designer and programmer locally - mainly creating a website for a major local credit union. She is an avid gardener, a fan of international cuisines, and enjoys the Hudson Valley for its beauty, historic buildings, and landscape. (Maria has recently taken up skiing - which she loves.) She married native-born Mark Hopkins in 1999 settling with him in the Town of Poughkeepsie. Prior to that she was a resident of Singapore where she was a fashion model and taught pre-school children.
The benefit fundraiser will be at The American Legion
(Old Degarmo Rd. -off of Overlook Rd), Poughkeepsie, NY
on May 8th between 2:00 pm - 8:00 pm.
For more information please call Diane at 485-6259.
Entertainment includes LIVE music by:
Vito Petroccitto (of 4 Guys in Disguise)
Steve Palmer (of Barebones and Wildflowers)
Bobby and Lynn Costello! |
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| Brewery Blow Out! |
| Fri, Apr. 23 2004 |
| Man O Man did we have a blast last night at the Hyde Park Brewery in Hyde Park, NY. The "Farmer's Daughter", among many other great musical moments, was recorded LIVE (audio and video) with a very enthusiastic audience onhand.
Avid Flyer Productions (www.redplate.com)was on hand to capture Vito and the "Four Guys" in action.
The cameras were rolling when Vito led the Four Guys into the Beestie Boys'"You Gotta Fight For Your Right To Party" with the lyrics being replaced (of course) by Vito's zany spontaneity.
Keep an eye out for a DVD release of some of Vito's wildest exploits including a portion of last nights event! |
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| Vito's Acts Again! |
| Wed, Apr. 7 2004 |
| Yes that's right, Vito stars in a brand new TV Commercial. The shoot will be this Monday morning 04/12/04. The crew will be filming at an undisclosed location (as to keep his fans to a minimum for safety's sake). Stay tuned Cablevision customers. Keep an eye out for Vito on the tube! |
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| TV Action! |
| Mon, Mar. 22 2004 |
| Vito has been popping up on a MNN TV program. Produced by none other than Ritt Henn, Vito's great friend from the city. His show "A Man , A Bass, And A Box Of Stuff" airs Tuesday nights on channel 56 in NYC. Check him out tonight! Click on "TV Action" for details. |
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| Studio 23 is rolling! |
| Tue, Mar. 16 2004 |
| Vito has been very busy with some producing at studio 23 lately. He is just finishing up a demo project with Bruce Jennings (West Virginia), a terrific singer/songwriter. Vito then begins working with a wonderful singer/songwriter, Kari Spieler (Poughkeepsie, NY), a fine young artist! Saturdays and any available time at studio 23 are devoted to Vito's first solo CD ,"En Vito Veritas". An August release is expected. |
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| This just in......... |
| Sat, Mar. 13 2004 |
| What a great time had by all at "Mary's" in Millbrook, NY tonight! I had the pleasure of performing with "Just Us". This melting pot of musicians was put together by Greg Douglas (founder/vocalist of "just us",former 4 guy)
What a blast, I got to play some of my tunes ( "Aint No Gators" and "Miles Away", and of course "The Yankee Song"). So many close friends came out to support Greg in his "comeback".
Congrats Greg for putting together such a fine night. Great to see all of you! I was blown away when I found out that Richie Scarlett (one of the best rockin/rollers you could ever see) came there just to see me! His kind words on the first break were surreal seeing as I grew up watching this dynamo. Here he was saying what an unbelievable bunch of guitar playing I did on the Four Guys CD called "Live Tracks". Seems as though Richie found it in a hospital discount rack and paid $.50 for it! I am on cloud 9 in response to his accolades , I'm not sure when I'll ever come down! I saw a very old near and dear friend Paul Orfino tonight as well. Great to see he and all the other folks who surprised us by showing up in huge numbers.
Oh well, see you at the next gig,
Vito |
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| Vito's Greatest Electric Gig! |
| Tue, Mar. 9 2004 |
| 09/25/00
I have spent most of this day thinking about what I can easily describe as the greatest musical moment of my life! Last night I had the great pleasure of playing guitar for Merl Saunders (B3 master, Jerry Garcia Band). The experience was more than exciting , thrilling , or mind blowing . It was just plain mystical , magical, or I’d have to say spiritual to say the least!
This guy (Merl) is unbelievable!!!!! What a player , ...........what a generous human being!
People were telling me that they’d never seen me play like that before, my response to them was this ....... “ No , you never saw me play like that before”. I felt so ready , I felt so into it , I felt like I was manipulating the evening with some kind of mental telepathy or something.
It all started with Rob Robinson putting me in this beautiful situation. He was extremely happy with the result of his premeditated gathering of musicians. I honestly do believe that there is more to this than just good planning. Anyone for KARMA ?
I meet Merl’s road manager , and (Richard) wanted to go over the tunes that we would perform with Merl. He calls Merl from the street with a cell phone and Merl asks to speak with me!
He proceeds to tell me that he’d like to do his tunes and asks if I’m familiar with them. I tell him that I am not but the rhythm section ( Mike & Bobby Kemp) know your stuff inside out. I know that they will stick to you like glue and if they’re there , I’m there too. He then tells me that his music is like Chick Corea’s music , and I told him “ I’ll just have to play twice as many notes as I normally play then”. He gave a little chuckle and said “We’ll talk when I get down there”.
Upon his arrival , I was ushered into a makeshift backstage area . It was in a back room of a retail store on Main St. in New Paltz. The sign said closed but all you did was open the door , enter the dark showroom and find your way back to the doorway covered by a curtain with psychedelic overtones! There he was , Merl himself , greeting Mike (bass player) & myself with a slight hint of caution in his behavior. This guy doesn’t know who we are, and we’re about to be his backing band! I couldn’t blame him for being a little hesitant. So we huddle up and he started to tell us about the tunes . Mike started chiming in, and the rest is history! He was describing really cool parts to us just acappella ! After about five (count em) five minutes ,we were ready to hit the stage! We opened up with a few killer tunes with a killer quartet (on the way up the alley , we added a B3 player “Mike Torsone” ,who had rented the B3 to the promoter that evening) . We were COOKING ! Then Mike T. left the “Hammond”, and Merl was introduced . Welcomed to the stage with thunderous applause from the audience, Merl dismissed Mike (bassist), and started into some “G” blues ,then pointed at me as if to say “take it boy”! This was the moment I’d been waiting for all weekend long!
He wanted me to solo , and I gave him a SOLO! He looked over , and I could tell that he knew he was in good company! Mike returned to his bass, and Merl led us into “Save Our Mother Earth” and we were in seventh heaven!!!! This particular song had a call and response kind of thing between his vocal, and my guitar . I was feeling good , and matched him note for note! This was one of the parts he was describing earlier , and I was listening ......TOTALLY COOL !! We had agreed on 3 or 4 tunes , and SIX tunes later we were done. Finished up with “Fire on the Mountain”. C Mixolydian Mode was the way to go baby!!!!!!( I kept on thinking ...... “What is C the 5 of ????? C’mon..........what is C the 5 of ????......I just couldn’t think of it.......... Oh ..... its F Major!!!!
Yee Ha ! Eureka!! .........of course C MIXO is F Major!!!!!!!!”.) This was to be my finest moment , I’ve played with a lot of “biggies” , but MERL is the *&^^(*&^$#%% !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Post show we were able to hang with Merl for a while. I told him “ I hope we did you justice” , and he said “you did just FINE !!”.
What a time , just had to share this with a few of special folks in my life. The folks that I know would be glad to hear this! This show was also video taped , and was recorded to DAT! When I get one , you’ll get one !!!!
Thanks for listening!
VITO
MERL'S REPLY:
from 09/27/2000
Re: Backing Merl
From: merl
Vito,Vito,you are the man,thanks for playing your ass off for me,But all of you did that...thanks again for backing me up. Would love to see the video,and here the dat,,send it to me, tell all the musicians that backed me I love them madly,,,,,the letter you wrote here is a master piece,I will keep it in my colection,,lets play the 2nd set some time !!! keep it real,,,,merl |
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| Vito Update |
| Thu, Jan. 8 2004 |
| Hello my friends and family,
I have about twenty minutes to come up with a quick update for you. I have been very busy trying to get a strong start in 2004,
2003 came in with some rough times from May til Sept. and went out with a couple great bangs! My Dec.13th Bodle's Opera House show was great. I had the pleasure of opening for "Modern Man" , and then sat in with them for some Xmas tunes I didn't know at the end of the terrific show! Those guys are hilarious, if you ever get the chance!
I have been getting new songs ready to add to my CD "En Vito Veritas". I've got some of it recorded and am looking forward to getting some more done in March.
The "Yankee Song" is doing real well. Sometimes I sell them just going to the coffee shop around the corner! This merchandise thing is so cool! Sometimes as soon as I play the Yankee Song, I have people stop my set in order to purchase the song.
This past weekend I played my home town Brewery (Hyde Park,NY) with "King Vito and the Sea Hippies". This is a name I stole (don't worry , I've given it back.........kind of)from a real group that existed back in the 60s. King Vito (the real one) recently passed away and his nephew , who lives in San Diego contacted me to ask me how I came about the name, and he was also wondering if his uncle Vito ever played with me. I told him that I just thought the name was super cool and without any consideration I began to use it.
I'd like to thank Cathy D. , who brought the whole Millbrook contingent to the Brewery that night, I'd also like to thank the "Nothing Personal" crowd for coming and then taking King Vito to the diner after the show! I had a great time with yous guys.
I'd also like to thank Bruce Wolfeil (Bass and Ukelele) , Joe Beesmer (Guitar and Vocal), and John Chocianowski (drums) ....Man! What a band of sea hippies!
Wintersongs is coming up! What can I say, I'll be with some of my favorite people, my favorite community! Sarah and I will be there together for the Valentines Day weekend. Sloan Wainwright, Penny Nichols (our leader), David Roth, Ritt Henn , Dave Cook and a host of others will be braving the sub-zero temperatures at the Ashokan field campus for this 4th annual winter songwriter workshop! I can't wait.
Sarah and I spent the day yesterday listening to David Roth's new double CD . I have the complete David Roth collection now and this latest is quite fine! You all know how much I love this man, I just can't believe that I've befriended all these famous folks including "Da Man" , David!
His CD had us laughing and crying , but most of all it had us appreciating each other more, and appreciating life more!
What a great CD, it is a must for your collection, he even has Sarah and I playing on a couple of tunes! Many guest artists (David's friends).
If you want to know more about David and his music,click on "Vito Update" at the top of this article!
This week I have the pleasure of joining Dr. Larry's "Blackened Blues" band this Friday night Jan.30th, at Joe's in New Paltz, New York. The good doctor loves playing his guitar out in public, but he doesn't come out for just that reason. This man is very generous and the cover charge at the door goes to a worthy charity. The band gets paid out of his pocket, so I was wondering if anyone is interested in showing up for this event we and the charity ( the DOC can explain more to you on site about where the $ is going) would appreciate it! We could use some support on this one. The best part is that the band starts at 8 pm or so. Call for more info!
Off to Boonton, NJ Saturday night with the "Four Guys in Disguise" , we're playing down in the Jersey state again. They love us down there!
I'll be doing the solo Hunter Mountain gig two more times. Wednesday February 4th, and Friday February 20th. Both gigs are 1:30-5:30pm.So if you ski, and want to come up for the day.....please do!
If you're looking for double trouble, join me on Feb. 20th at Hunter Mt. , then follow me to the Hyde Park Brewery where I'll be playing again with the "4 Guys".
My student base is growing, but it is getting tough for me. I want to start doing some specialized workshops soon. I will be producing a couple of my students as well. Some of them need demos and rather than have them pay big $ , I'll record them at "Studio 23".
Oh! I forgot to tell you. I'll be going down to Manhattan NYC Tuesday Feb. 17th to play at Meg and Sharon's coffeehouse which is held every Tuesday at the "C Note"! I'm kind of featured that evening. I really can't wait for that one should be fun.
My love for my wife keeps a growing, she has reinvented me! I am so thankful for her drive and inspiration, not to mention her honesty! Love her!
Oh well , my twenty minutes is up, and if you think I typed all this in 20, you're crazed!
Love you all
Vito of the Mountains! |
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| What's up |
| Sun, Aug. 31 2003 |
| After going through summer recovering from an appendectomy with seemingly every complication under the sun, Vito Petroccitto , Jr. will join "Four Guys In Disguise" onstage for the first time since last year at the Hyde Park Brewery on Friday, September 12th, 2003 @ 10:00pm.
Vito has been busy finishing up some new songs for his solo CD entitled "En Vito Veritas". This CD should be available by summer 2004. The recording begins in October and Vito is very excited about his new direction.
2003 started out with a bang with Vito playing in Los Angeles at "Kulak's Woodshed" as Freebo's (long time Bonnie Raitt Bassist) guest, he did a three song set including his world famous "Yankee Song".
After returning from a successful California mini-tour Vito returned for a day , then embarked on another mini-tour of the D.C. area , and Virginia backing up his good friend,singer-songwriter David Roth .
Thanks for reading! |
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| 4 Guys play hard, love gigs By Lee park |
| Thu, Aug. 16 2001 |
| (Reprinted from the Poughkeepsie Journal)
If they're Four Guys In Disguise, then they're doing a pretty poor job of staying incognito.
The quartet, made up of Vito Petroccitto, Jr. on guitar and vocals, Jeff Carano on bass, Paul Beretta on drums and Michael DelVecchio on vocals, is currently alternating Friday nights with the Hyde Park Brewing Co. and the Hobnobbin' North, both on Route 9 in Hyde Park. Tonight, Four Guys In Disguise will be at the Brewing Co. beginning at 10 p.m.
"We've moved our venues from the outskirts of town back to Route 9," said DelVecchio. The quintessential cover and party band, Four Guys In Disguise digs to its classic rock roots, but with much more added spice. "We're more of a sophisticated classic rock background, like Steely Dan," said DelVecchio.
The resulting sound is pure fun. The band brings its sense of humor to the stage, as Petroccitto frequently pens parodies for Classic Rock WPDH's (101.5 FM) morning program. "We get wild and have a great time," said Petroccitto. "We try to break down that barrier between the audience and the band."
Humor a bond
Using humor is one way of doing that, but the strong musicianship and huge song selection bridges the gap just as well. Each show is unpredictable, with a wide variety of music. "We have such a vast musical canvas that we can work on," said Beretta. "We bring all me elements together.
Carmelo DeCicco, owner of the Hyde Park Brewing Co., said before Four Guys In Disguise began playing the venue, he would never dream of booking the same band every other week. Four Guys is the exception, however, as they always bring in a large crowd looking for that guaranteed good time.
The band does have original material and its repertoire of covers extends well beyond the classic rock realm. "You can hear anything from Latin to jazz to rock 'n' roll to dance music," said DelVecchio.
Carano is proud of the Hudson Valley as home for Four Guys In Disguise. "There is an enormous wealth of musical talent in this area," said Carano. "We're proud and happy to be a part of the Hudson Valley." While many great acts grace the stages at local venues, DeCicco is partial to Four Guys In Disguise, which will be having a CD release party at the venue on Aug. 30 to celebrate its new live CD. "I'd say they're the best band in Dutchess County," he said.
To find out more about Four Guys In Disguise, visit their Web site.
Lee Park is the music writer for the Poughkeepsie Journal. Write him c/o Poughkeepsie Journal, P.O. Box 1231, Poughkeepsie, NY 12602, call (845) 437-4822, or e-mail lpark@poughkee.gannett.com. |
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