Musicians unite to raise funds for OSCAR

A benefit for One Step Closer Animal Rescue organized by local musicians will fill The Fountain House with great music and good vibes on Sunday, April 19, from 2 to 8 p.m.

After the Feb. 11 fire, that destroyed the OSCAR shelter on Stanhope Road in Andover and took the lives of six dogs, the community banded together to help the rescue get back on its feet. While local efforts raised an impressive amount, OSCAR wants to rebuild with an eye toward helping more dogs than ever. The volunteers see this as an opportunity to turn a tragedy into a positive outcome for adoptable dogs in the area by adding a spay/neuter clinic.

The concert is also an opportunity for local music lovers to hear five well known area bands and several acoustic artists for a suggested minimum donation of $20.

Headlining the benefit will be both Mike Lawlor and Deb D’Anne. D’Anne will be performing with her Stillwater Trio. D’Anne is a singer-songwriter in the Americana tradition known for evocative storytelling in a blend of country, blues, jazz folk and roots music. She is known for her stunning finger-style playing, resonating lyrics and soulful vocals. The trio also includes the masterful keyboard styling of Joe Reynolds and Jim Ezzi on percussion.

Lawlor and friends will rock the night out. Lawlor has been a staple of the Tri-State music scene for 40 years, on his own projects: the Mike Lawlor Banned and Mike Lawlor Trio, and as a sideman for many projects in studio and live shows. Lawlor made national headlines in 2000 when he won the Guitarmageddon competition sponsored by Fender, Guitar Center and VH1.

Another long-time area musician, Chuck Wood will play with his band. Wood is a multi-instrumentalist/percussionist, composer, recording artist and live performer who has toured the US for 45 years. His original compositions are heavily influenced by the music of West Africa and creative rhythms.

Lori Malvey, a singer-songwriter and keyboardist from Newton, is bringing her band. She has been singing and composing most of her live in genres that include alt folk, jazz, pop, Christian and positive dance music among others.

The Mike Herz Trio is led by a songwriter known for his disarming honesty and poetic insight. Joining Mike at this special event are two members of his indie rock band, Part-Time Custodian, Joe Palmisano on pedal steel and mandolin and Kyle Wagner on drums.

Three area acoustic musicians Tim Blohm, Carolyn Jackson and Sidny Treible will also perform.