Billboard Discoveries called this EP “a premier calling card” and “a well executed collection.” Gary Allen of the Charlie Daniels Band described it as “powerful, breathtaking and a masterpiece” and went as far as to call him “a male version of Taylor Swift – young, good looking, writes his own songs and can cross Pop and Country lines.”

We thought the EP was excellent – well executed, enjoyable, moving and wonderfully short – only four songs – no wasted tracks taking up space in an attempt to extract more money for more songs. The first two songs (Settlin’ Down and Fire Away) are full of energy robust instrumentation. “Worth Fighting For” is track three – a fiercely emotional ballad about the battle between family and self gratification. Wrapping it all up is the EP’s title track – a beautifully enticing number with a bit of classical guitar and soft jazz flair – perhaps the best track on the EP.

Michael’s first EP, “God Only Knew,” was more of a fun, light hearted project; however, the first song, “Just As Surprised As You” has garnered substantial radio play and been featured on American Airlines flights and Six Flags North America’s in-part radio. Some artists have that inexplicable “it” quality and Michael Whitworth most definitely has “it” by the throat. The Music Industry is a fickle mistress and who knows what the future holds, but we are rooting
for Whitworth as he soldiers on. Check out his website www.michaelwhitworthmusic.com.

When I felt ready for a bigger and more critical audience, I knew that I had to venture down to Eddie’s Attic in Decatur. Eddie’s Attic is all about the music. You don’t go there to get drunk and wild and talk over the artists – you go there to listen. The venue is intimate and charming, with tables surrounding the stage and dim lighting filling the space with a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Prior to all shows, a host comes out on stage to remind attendees to turn off all cell phones and to introduce that night’s act with a glowing review.

Eddie’s Attic holds weekly open-mic nights that were known – and are still known – to bring out some of the best new talent around. Artists like John Mayer, Sean Mullins and Jennifer Nettles all got their start at Eddie’s Attic. Playing my first open-mic night there helped me to gain confidence in my musical abilities. Getting positive feedback from people outside of my friend group, including other artists, meant a lot to me. I actually gained a lot of musician friends through the experience.

Open-mic nights are only a part of the appeal of Eddie’s Attic though. The venue also plays host to shows for traveling artists – as well as CD release parties for local artists – which is what brought me to Eddie’s Attic the other night. Gareth Asher held his CD release party at Eddie’s Attic and played his new CD front to back for a full audience.

I was introduced to Gareth Asher through a friend of mine, Michael Tolcher. The three of us went out to play a round of golf one Thursday afternoon, and I could tell then that Gareth has a real passion for music – he hummed and sang all the way through the 18 holes that we played. He also talked and joked around like we had known each other for years. His love for music and his laid-back, fun spirit shows in his performances, too. He treats the audience like family, and it’s obvious that there’s no where else he would rather be than on the stage performing. He has a soulful, acoustic rock sound that draws in the audience. His new album, Between the Smiles and Tears, perfectly shows off his style and skill – and is a great listen all the way through.

So, head out to Eddie’s Attic and catch an open-mic night or see one of your favorite artists. And make sure to give Gareth Asher a listen. You won’t be disappointed!

Live music by Galen Crader makes you feel like you’ve flown over the North Atlantic Ocean and have landed in a room filled with new found friends and fun Irish sing-alongs. Galen, a regular at Limerick, will be performing a mix of his authentic Irish tunes and your favorite cover songs this Wednesday through Saturday nights, April 14-17. Check out the Entertainment section of Limerick Junction’s website or visit www.galencrader.com to find out when you can catch Galen in the future.

Enjoy,
Pete

Check out http://www.limerickjunction.com
Map it: Google Maps for Limerick Junction
Galen Crader: http://www.galencrader.com

So, I’ll make this introduction short and sweet (just like an ice cream sandwich!). My name is Pete Schmidt. I’ve been a resident of Georgia most of my life, and I’ve been in the music industry for twelve years.

I’m always looking for the next best band or the next coolest venue – and I’m here to let you in on what’s on the up-and-up here in Georgia. Think of me as a mix between Simon Cowell and Mike Rowe – Dirty Jobs plus American Idol. I’m always ready to get dirty and dig out the next greatest talent. Hole in the wall bars, up-scale venues, folk artists to rockers – it all works.

That said, I’m excited to start talking music! Please feel free to send me info on your favorite local band or hot spot. It’s time we start promoting all the great music Georgia has to offer!

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