PULSE / Local Music Spotlight
BEST OF Local Music
written by: Moony Mann I’ve been writing the “Local Music Spotlight” column for Pulse
Magazine SWFL for several years. During that time, I’ve had the hon- or of introducing readers to some of this area’s most talented artists. Some of the acts covered have already enjoyed long and fruitful ca- reers working in the regional music industry, while others have gone on to superstardom, performing on the world stage. Sometimes I’ll cover a local act that’s been based in the area for decades, making local performances a career. In other issues, I’ll write about a talented musician who is just getting started in the entertainment business. My simple formula remains the same when selecting which hot
new band or what sensational soloist to feature in an upcoming is- sue. The act must regularly perform LIVE in Southwest Florida... 100% LIVE! Acts that use pre-recorded backing tracks are automati- cally disqualified. I receive a lot of regular reader feedback including a high volume of tips and referrals. Please rest assured that I investi- gate each and every one. It’s my responsibility to filter through all the material submitted and select talent worthy of recognition. Following up on an email tip forwarded from the Pulse office, I
found myself at a local open mic night waiting to check out a young singer/songwriter. As a longtime working musician and LIVE local music advocate, I’ve personally hosted countless open mic events in the past and know from experience that they can be as bland and bor- ing as the performing talent (who is often “limited” or “unseasoned”). There’s a reason you typically won’t find many professional musi- cians at open mic night – and that’s because, well, because they’re working! However, there’s always the possibility of discovering a hid- den gem, and on this night that’s exactly what I found… and her name is Gabraella Rose. The seventeen year old guitar playing singer/songwriter uses a
mix of soft, soothing and sophisticated vocal melodies accompanied by acoustic guitar rhythms and “life’s lessons and observations” lyrics
28 | Pulse Magazine SWFL
to enchant listeners. Deeply rooted in the soft pop and folk pop sub- genres, the combination of Gabraella’s song styling and composition are perfect complements to her vocal and guitar sounds. She com- mands the stage from behind the mic with comfortable posture and mannerisms. (It certainly doesn’t hurt that she’s absolutely adorable!) I witnessed her captivate the Thursday night audience at the popular South Street City Oven & Grill in Naples on a warm evening in late May.
I caught up with Gabraella after her performance and during our
hour together, I learned more about the young songstress. She was only eleven years old when she started playing the guitar, explaining that her father was a major influence. After learning the basics on his guitar growing up in Pennsylvania she went on to perform in school talent shows and coffee shops. Gabraella confesses, “Since then I’ve performed hundreds of times at these types of events, but hope one day to book my own regular gigs.” I asked if any specific artists influence her music, and she men-
tioned Regina Spektor, Ingrid Michaelson, Katy Perry, Adele and Demi Lovato. Before hearing Gabraella perform at South Street, I listened to the six tracks offered online, and was impressed by the “less-is-more” recording approach which I assumed resulted from the disciplined hand of a professional studio engineer. Therefore, I was very surprised when she revealed that those tracks were actually re- corded with simply her laptop computer microphone – no other spe- cial recording equipment. Very impressive! Gabraella’s most important fan? Her mother, she says, quickly
mentioning how lucky she feels to have always had such a supportive family. She lost her father two years ago and hopes one day to make him proud. That has surely already been accomplished, but I predict even bigger things for this exceptional young artist. See for yourself and check her out at
www.reverbnation.com. Or even better, see Ga- braella play LIVE at one of the many local venues where she regularly performs. A full calendar of upcoming appearances is available on- line at
www.facebook.com/gabraellarose.
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