Luckiest Guy on the Lower East Side

The candle lit Living Room in LES felt more like an intimate gathering amongst friends than a Monday night venue. Cory Chisel, accompanied by the beautifully sweet Adriel Harris, stepped onto the stage as if from an Andrew Wyeth painting-- just real salt of the earth folks. Cory spoke to the crowd, disclosing personal tidbits as if we were extended family sitting around the fireplace-- the crowd warmed by his charming lyrics, true of heart persona, and deeply soulful voice.

This young son of a Baptist minister has a highly apparent old soul, with lyrics that whimsically weave stories of heartbreak, faith, and joy. Cory's voice is remarkably enchanting, resembling a real sense of Americana-- much like a young Bruce Springsteen, Paul Simon, Van Morrison, or Bob Dylan. His songwriting is raw and truthful, leaving his audience feeling special-- as if he had whispered secrets for only us to keep. If Tim Buckley & Jeff Buckley had a baby, (incestuous, i know-- and impossible, I guess), Cory Chisel would be their sunshine boy.

I had the pleasure of spending some time with Cory and his posse after the show. A room full of amiable dispositions can be hard to come by in NYC, but this crowd was full of Midwest charm and a genuine interest in learning more about their fans/associates/friends. Adriel was soft spoken while mentioning how truly lucky she felt. After an approving nod of the head from Cory to Leonard Cohen's 'I'm Your Man' and a shot of tequila, Cory boasted passionately that 'if this whole music thing doesn't work out... (points at self) documentary filmmaker right here'.

The highlight of the night was definitely the closing song. Cory took a moment and looked into the crowd-- 'If you're from New York you don't get it' he said, as he began to strum a delicate cover of 'Rosie' by Tom Waits. He's 'doing a little bit more than the best he can', and we're definitely looking forward to a little bit more from you, Cory & Company. I couldn't think of better people to wish great successes upon...

Fall in love a little here. And get some free goodness here.

And, be sure to catch Cory, Adriel, and the gang again before the Wisconsin wind steals them away... Monday, Sept. 15th @ The Living Room on Ludlow.