Live @ Maxwell’s in Hoboken
In the liner notes of Boxcar Nancy’s CD, Jersey Beat’s Jim Testa referred to their music as Country Eastern. He hit the nail right on the head.
Oh it’s country alright, but with a certain Jersey grit and mind-set. Picture a long drive on a sunny day along roads lined with industrial complexes where the trees should be. The songs are tight (but just loose enough), melancholy, happy, contrary, moving and altogether good.
The band—consisting of John Burke (drums), Phil Ippolito (bass) and Rik Mercaldi (electric & steel guitar)—served up the perfect blend of tones ranging from dulcet to fiery behind John Raido’s sincere voice.
As the set progressed I realized that an ex-girlfriend once bought a guitar for me from Rik. Well, ok she used my credit card and never paid me back … but it’s the thought that counts, right? Rik and I chatted afterwards in the front bar. I think he’s convinced me to buy a lap steel. Damn the salesman in him!!
