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By Robert White , Editor-In-Chief Christian DiGirolamo is not your average publicist. In fact, he didn’t set out to be one at all. Today, he stands at the helm of Two for the Show Media, a powerhouse boutique agency responsible for promoting Grammy-winning jazz musicians and elevating countless voices across the global music scene. But his path to this role was as unexpected as it is inspiring. It all started with a phone call that changed everything. “I was out of work, had 37 cents in the bank, and no car,” Christian recalled. “A guy called and said, ‘You came recommended as a publicist.’ And I had this eight-second pause… and I said, ‘Yeah, I’m a publicist.’ That moment started it all.” From that leap of faith—and a trip to Barnes & Noble for a copy of Public Relations for Dummies —Christian built a company that now handles press for an elite roster of jazz artists. His PR campaigns have supported more than 30 Grammy-nominated albums and two Grammy winners, including Arturo O’Farrill’s Song for Chico  and Dafnis Prieto’s Back to the Sunset . As of March 2024, his clients include legends like Taj Mahal, Cindy Blackman Santana, Snarky Puppy’s Larnell Lewis, and studio icon John “JR” Robinson. Yet his credibility doesn’t stem from titles or accolades alone. Christian is a drummer at heart. “I’ve been playing drums since I was five,” he said. “Technically, that’s 51 years now.” He honed his craft at Berklee College of Music before launching his career in the studios—first at Systems Two in Brooklyn, where he worked with artists like Branford Marsalis and Cassandra Wilson, and then at the iconic Record Plant in Sausalito, where records by Santana and Mother Love Bone (later Pearl Jam) were brought to life. Christian’s approach to PR is deeply rooted in his musician’s sensibility. “I never go to work,” he said. “I love what I do so much that sitting at my desk is as fulfilling as sitting behind the drum kit.” That sense of purpose informs how he manages his artists—many of whom are longtime idols. “I’ve worked with nearly every drummer I idolized as a kid. I didn’t chase them—they found me. It’s all happened organically.” As founder of Two for the Show Media, Christian offers more than just press releases and tour support—he provides honest mentorship. “Every artist has a different idea of what success looks like,” he said. “Sometimes, it’s like being a music therapist. I help them figure out how to move forward without stepping on their own story.” His reach isn’t limited to American shores. Having spent time in the distribution side of The New York Times earlier in life, Christian developed a global understanding of media outlets, which now informs his international publicity strategies. From mailing CDs to 300 outlets to servicing over 4,000 journalists digitally, he’s adapted with the times—and helped his artists do the same. Despite all the success, Christian remains grounded. “I don’t see celebrities—I see people,” he said. “Everyone puts their pants on the same way. And behind every stage moment is a real story, a struggle, a grind. I’m here to help tell that story the right way.” With a client list that spans generations and genres, and a work ethic forged from passion, Christian DiGirolamo has become one of jazz’s most trusted allies. As NEA Jazz Master Ellis Marsalis put it best, “He’s a top-notch publicist while keeping his soul intact.” For more information or to connect with Christian, visit TwoForTheShowMedia.com . Listen to the full interview with Christian on the Savoir Faire Audio Experience.

By Robert White , Editor-In-Chief Veteran country singer-songwriter Bill Nash is embracing his roots and honoring a legend with his latest single, Locked in Your Lovin’ Arms, due out Friday, March 21. The track is the first release from the upcoming Oh Hank EP, a heartfelt tribute to the timeless style of Hank Williams Sr., featuring a blend of reverence, tradition, and the unmistakable twang of classic country. Co-written by Nash’s son Jimmy Nash and produced alongside industry mainstay Kenny Royster (Luke Combs, Trace Adkins, Craig Morgan), the single is already earning early radio support from key country stations like KAGH, KDOL, KTMO, and WGRV. “I told my son, Jimmy, I wanted to do a Hank tribute, and he had already written this song for me to feature my yodel, just like I do on Hank songs,” said Nash. “It was a perfect fit.” The song’s nostalgic soundscape is brought to life with a rich vocal performance that nods to Hank Williams Sr.’s legendary yodeling. But Locked in Your Lovin’ Arms isn’t just a sonic homage—it’s a deeply personal project for Nash, whose seven-decade career began on the front bench of a Pentecostal church and wound through five major record labels, the Grand Ole Opry, and collaborations with country icons like Reba McEntire and Dolly Parton. Hank Williams' influence runs deep in Nash’s musical DNA. “Hank Williams songs were the first songs I sang as a young, aspiring singer-songwriter,” Nash recalled. “Little did I know that those Hank songs would be the start of my country career, that led me to Houston, and then Nashville, and on to five major labels, and a lifetime in music.” The Oh Hank EP, due June 6, features five tracks and a medley that blend original songs with classic Hank covers like I Saw The Light and I Can’t Help It. Nash co-wrote the title track Oh Hank with his wife Kim Nash and their son Jimmy, making the project a true family affair. Reflecting on the EP’s origin, Nash shared an emotional insight: “I was playing I Can’t Help It If I’m Still in Love with You at my desk one day, and something just came over me. I started to cry, thinking about Hank’s pain, his early death, and all the songs he never got to write. It was a spiritual moment for me.” The heartfelt nature of the project extends beyond the music. Nash, along with his wife, also founded Champions Kids Camp in Houston, a nonprofit supporting children who’ve experienced traumatic events. That same spirit of resilience and connection flows through Locked in Your Lovin’ Arms and the EP that follows. To accompany the single, a music video is currently in production in both Houston and Nashville, directed by Jimmy Nash and Tommy Mauser. The video is expected to premiere in late spring or early summer, adding a visual chapter to this poignant musical tribute. With a career that began in gospel trios and evolved into mainstream hits, Bill Nash’s latest work is more than a comeback—it’s a celebration of legacy, family, and the enduring soul of country music. As fellow legend Larry Gatlin once said, “I have never heard him sing a bad note. I have never even heard him sing a good note. Bill Nash only sings great notes.” For more information, visit BKNash.com Listen to the full interview with Bill Nash on the Savoir Faire Audio Experience.

By Robert White , Editor-In-Chief When Craig First was laid off from his engineering job just weeks before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the future felt uncertain. With a family to support and a career on pause, many would have taken time to regroup. But for this lifelong baseball enthusiast, adversity sparked innovation. What started as a personal solution to a painful problem is now ThumbPRO® —the #1 thumb guard trusted by pro along with all levels of baseball and softball players around the globe. Like many great products, ThumbPRO® was born from necessity. First, an ardent baseball fan and engineer by trade, knew the toll that repeated impact and grip pressure could take on a hitter’s hands—particularly the vulnerable thumb. With no outside investment and no connections in the sports gear industry, he went to work. What began as sketches and prototypes built in a garage quickly evolved into a high-performance, ergonomic thumb guard designed to protect hitters from jamming, impact, and injury—without compromising feel or swing mechanics. The journey from concept to market demanded relentless trial and error, ingenuity, and grit. ThumbPRO® is engineered for comfort, durability, and performance. Its sleek, ambidextrous design accommodates both left- and right-handed hitters, offering a custom feel that sets it apart from bulkier alternatives. The product is now a staple in dugouts and batting cages everywhere, from youth leagues to the World Series stage. Yes—players from teams in the World Series were seen wearing ThumbPRO®. The brand’s secret? Listening to athletes. From rising high school talent to pro players at the top of their game, feedback has shaped ThumbPRO® at every stage. Coaches and trainers have also embraced the guard for its role in injury prevention, helping athletes stay healthy and perform at their best through long seasons and hard swings. True to the founder’s values, ThumbPRO® is proudly manufactured 100% in the USA. That decision wasn’t just about quality control—it was about honoring the community that supported his journey and ensuring the product met the highest standards in sports protection. Launching in a niche category during a global crisis came with challenges. Supply chain uncertainty, limited market access, and consumer hesitancy all tested the brand’s resolve. But through it all, ThumbPRO® grew—from a hand-built prototype to a respected name in baseball innovation. Today, ThumbPRO® is more than just gear. It’s a symbol of resilience, passion, and progress. The brand is helping shape conversations around safety in youth sports, advocating for better protection and smarter training practices. Parents are reporting fewer hand injuries. Trainers are seeing better outcomes. And athletes? They’re swinging with more confidence. With expansion into retail and new training partnerships on the horizon,ThumbPRO® is just getting started. In an arena where seconds matter and injuries linger, pro athletes don't settle for second best. That’s why ThumbPRO® has become the trusted thumb protection of elite hitters. From garage to global, First’s journey is a masterclass in bootstrapped brilliance—a true startup success story that’s redefining sports equipment for the better. Whether you're coaching a youth athlete or swinging for the fences, ThumbPRO® delivers the edge every athlete deserves. To learn more or order your own, visit: www.baseballthumbguard.com

By Robert White, Editor-In-Chief New Orleans-based vocalist Anna Laura Quinn is redefining jazz storytelling with the upcoming release of Just… Quinn & Barrett , a nuanced and intimate album created in collaboration with guitarist Ed Barrett. The album—arriving July 11—offers a deeply personal, genre-spanning collection of music that reflects Quinn’s eclectic journey as a late-blooming jazz vocalist and arranger. It’s a rich sonic statement that brings together decades of musical influence, careful curation, and a friendship forged in the stillness of pandemic isolation. Known for her expressive voice and layered artistry, Quinn didn’t follow a traditional path into music. Raised in San Francisco in a home where Ella Fitzgerald and Joni Mitchell played as often as Bach or the Beatles, Quinn originally studied visual art at NYU and only began exploring her voice seriously in her mid-twenties. “It wasn’t until I moved to New Orleans in 2010 that I really began to find myself as a musician,” she says. That discovery took shape through years of study, including a master’s degree in Jazz Studies at the University of New Orleans, and a decade-long commitment to honing her voice and vision. Just… Quinn & Barrett  is a product of that commitment. Quinn and Barrett, who have been performing together since 2018, began building what they jokingly called their “Anna and Ed Mixtape” during the pandemic—an evolving setlist of songs from across genres that held shared emotional resonance. The album’s eleven tracks, recorded in sessions spanning May 2023 to May 2024, are a snapshot of that intimate collaboration, produced by New Orleans guitarist and educator Brian Seeger. From a spare and haunting interpretation of Tears for Fears' “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” to a swinging reimagining of Cole Porter’s “Just One of Those Things,” the album balances reverence with reinvention. Patsy Cline, Dr. John, Duke Ellington, and Joni Mitchell all find a home here, stitched together by Quinn’s velvety vocals and Barrett’s distinctive guitar tone—often delivered through a Telecaster in homage to his hero, Ed Bickert. Despite the stylistic diversity, the album feels cohesive. “Somehow, because it’s him and I—and with Brian’s help—it all comes together,” Quinn explains. “There’s this thread of jazz that holds it all in place, but it reaches into pop, folk, soul, even a bit of psychedelia.” The duo’s stripped-down arrangements create space for raw musical conversation. “Jazz is about spontaneity and communication,” Quinn says. “Even with just two people, we’re creating something dynamic. Some moments are big and energetic, others feel like a whisper. It’s all part of the story.” While Quinn is no stranger to New Orleans' vibrant bar and club scene—where she also fronts the soulful party band The Unmentionables—she’s moving increasingly toward curated concert experiences that allow for deeper listening. “There’s a joy in the bar gigs and improvising based on the energy of the room,” she says. “But there’s a different kind of intimacy when the audience is sitting down, really leaning in.” Her artistic evolution is grounded in a clear sense of identity. “I didn’t imagine this life when I was younger,” she says, “but now I feel more like myself than ever. I’m letting go more on stage, trusting the music to come through.” Quinn & Barrett will support the album with a summer tour beginning July 25 in Rochester, NY, with stops in Syracuse, Glens Falls, Burlington, and more to be announced. As always, fans can find tour dates, videos, and updates at annalauraquinn.com  or follow @ALQsings on Instagram. Whether performing swinging standards, jazz-inflected folk, or reworking pop classics into something entirely her own, Anna Laura Quinn is charting a path that is wholly authentic—rooted in tradition but unafraid to explore the unknown. Listen to the full interview with Anna Laura Quinn on The Savoir Faire Audio Experience.

By Robert White , Editor-In-Chief Broadway icon Norm Lewis returns to the New York stage in Ceremonies in Dark Old Men , a powerful revival of Lonne Elder III’s seminal work, now playing at Theatre at St. Clements through May 18. In this rarely staged classic, Lewis takes on the role of Russell Parker, a once-charismatic vaudevillian turned aimless Harlem barber struggling to guide his fractured family through life in 1956. This marks the first major New York production of Ceremonies in Dark Old Men  in nearly 40 years, presented by The Peccadillo Theater Company, the Negro Ensemble Company Inc., and Eric Falkenstein. Directed by Clinton Turner Davis, the play explores the enduring dynamics of Black family life, ambition, loss, and redemption—making it as relevant today as it was in 1969 when it earned acclaim as a Pulitzer Prize runner-up. For Norm Lewis, best known for his historic turn as the first African American Phantom in Broadway’s The Phantom of the Opera , and appearances in Scandal , Pose , and Da 5 Bloods , the role of Russell Parker is a profound personal and professional challenge. “This is only my third play in New York,” Lewis says. “Mostly I’ve worked in musical theatre, so doing a straight play like this—especially one so rich in language and legacy—is an honor.” Set in mid-century Harlem, the story revolves around a family on the edge. Russell, a widowed father of three, spends his days reminiscing about his days on the stage while avoiding the hard truths of his family’s crumbling reality. His sons flirt with crime in search of quick wealth, while his daughter Adele holds the family together financially—growing increasingly resentful in the process. “There’s a lot of love in this family,” Lewis explains, “but there’s also tension, disappointment, and sacrifice. It’s a very human story.” Ceremonies in Dark Old Men  may be told through the lens of an African-American family, but its themes are universal. “We’ve had people from all backgrounds come to see the show and say, ‘That’s my uncle. That’s my father. That’s my family,’” Lewis says. “The writing is that good—it transcends time and culture.” Originally staged by the Negro Ensemble Company, the play has been a launching pad for legendary actors like Denzel Washington, Billy Dee Williams, Keith David, and Laurence Fishburne. “I didn’t know the play before this production,” Lewis admits. “But when I did a deep dive and saw who had come before me, I realized the legacy I was stepping into. I just hope to do it justice.” Despite his extensive résumé in musical theatre, Lewis relishes the freedom that straight plays offer. “With musicals, you’re locked into rhythm and timing. But with a play like this, there’s space to explore the cadence and emotional nuance of the language,” he says. Still, the challenge remains. “I read the script every day—even now during the run—because you always want to be sharp, especially when unexpected things happen in live theater.” Performances run Thursday through Sunday, with evening and matinee shows. As the play’s limited engagement approaches its end date, audiences continue to fill the seats, some hoping for an extended run. “The feedback has been phenomenal,” Lewis shares. “People are moved. They’re emotional. They’re talking back to the stage. That kind of connection—it’s why I do this.” Ceremonies in Dark Old Men  isn’t just a return to the stage for Norm Lewis; it’s a return to form for a vital piece of American theater that still speaks volumes. For those in or visiting New York, this revival is a must-see—an evocative, timely production led by one of Broadway’s finest talents. For tickets and more information, visit ThePeccadillo.com . You can listen to the full interview with Norm Lewis on The Savoir Faire Audio Experience.

By Robert White , Editor-In-Chief In a time when leadership is often reduced to sound bites and social media clout, Robert L. Dilenschneider brings a refreshing, values-driven perspective with his new book, Character: Life Lessons in Courage, Integrity, and Leadership. The author, communications expert, and founder of The Dilenschneider Group, draws on decades of global advisory experience to showcase what truly separates transformative leaders from the rest— character. Published by Citadel Press, Character profiles 31 remarkable individuals across politics, business, science, and culture. From Nelson Mandela’s defiance in the face of injustice to Florence Nightingale’s unwavering courage under fire, the book offers real-world case studies of integrity in action. “I wanted to motivate people who want to be successful,” says Dilenschneider. “I wanted to show them examples of individuals... all different... and that’s why I wrote the book.” The impact of the stories lies in their authenticity. These are not just historical icons—many were known personally by Dilenschneider himself. “I met Colin Powell as he walked by my apartment in New York. We ended up talking in a park for three hours,” he recounts. “I got a lot of insight from him.” That personal dimension gives the book emotional depth and unique authority. Dilenschneider’s own journey reflects the principles he writes about. After receiving a bus ticket from his father in Columbus, Ohio, he moved to New York City with no connections, eventually rising to CEO of Hill & Knowlton. Later, he founded The Dilenschneider Group, a consultancy providing strategic counsel to Fortune 500 companies and global influencers. “We advise clients around the world, from revenue growth strategies to geopolitical concerns,” he explains. “But the biggest problem I see inside companies? Fear. People are afraid to speak up. That kills innovation.” With 23 books to his name—two of which became bestsellers—Dilenschneider credits his writing discipline to advice once shared by literary icon Ernest Hemingway. “He told me to write from morning until noon every day, consistently,” he says. “Even if you think what you’re writing isn’t great, look at it a week later—you’ll often find it’s useful.” The relevance of Character extends far beyond the boardroom. Figures like Lou Gehrig, who played over 2,100 consecutive games without seeking the spotlight, and Frederick Banting, who discovered insulin but refused attention, underscore a vital message: real leadership is built on substance, not status. “These individuals didn’t just change industries—they shaped the world,” says Dilenschneider. His next book, already in development, will tackle the topic of respect—another quality he believes is increasingly lacking in modern society. “People need to respect one another more than they do,” he notes. “That’s what I hope to address next.” In a noisy world filled with fleeting trends and surface-level success, Robert Dilenschneider’s Character stands as a powerful reminder that integrity, courage, and service are not just admirable—they’re essential. Whether you're a rising professional or an established executive, Character offers a masterclass in timeless leadership from someone who has walked the walk. And in today’s climate, that’s a lesson worth learning. You can listen to the full interview with Robert Dilenschneider on The Savoir Faire Audio Experience.

After more than 35 years of building a trusted name in the puppy world, Citipups is embarking on an exciting new chapter. The long-standing family-run business is officially opening a brand-new store in Bentonville, Arkansas, bringing decades of expertise and a deeply personal approach to a region that’s rapidly growing and full of families looking to welcome new pets into their homes. With a sleek, easy-to-navigate website (citipups.com) and an expanding presence in one of America’s most promising towns, Citipups continues its mission: to help happy, healthy puppies connect with loving families—in a way that’s transparent, ethical, and supportive from the start. Over Three Decades of Experience, Now in a New Home Citipups has remained a family-owned and operated business with a passion for animals and people alike. What started as a small, local venture has grown into a trusted name in the puppy world—known for its integrity, care, and commitment to doing things the right way. Now, with a new store opening in Bentonville, Citipups is bringing its full legacy of knowledge and personal touch to Northwest Arkansas. This move represents not just expansion, but a heartfelt investment in a community that mirrors Citipups’ values: family, connection, and growth. Relationships That Matter: Breeders You Can Trust Citipups’ reputation is built on its relationships—with customers, and just as importantly, with responsible, caring breeders. Unlike anonymous online listings or questionable pet sources, Citipups works only with breeders who have been vetted over decades. These breeders prioritize health, socialization, and ethical practices, ensuring each puppy has the best start to life. That commitment to responsible sourcing isn’t just a bullet point—it’s a philosophy that’s embedded in every puppy placement. Families who come to Citipups can trust that their new companion was raised in a loving environment and will arrive healthy, happy, and ready to join their home. A Tailored, Hands-On Experience—Online and In Store While many platforms offer puppies sight-unseen or with little support, Citipups delivers a personalized, high-touch experience—whether you’re shopping online at citipups.com or visiting the new Bentonville storefront. The website makes it easy to browse available puppies, learn about breeds, and access detailed health records and breeder info. In-store, customers can meet the puppies face-to-face, ask questions, and get expert guidance on training, care, and everything in between. Setting a New Standard for Transparency and Care What separates Citipups isn’t just the puppies—it’s the process. Every customer receives full transparency when it comes to health, background, and care routines. Puppies are regularly seen by licensed veterinarians and come with thorough documentation, so families know exactly what they’re bringing home. Even after the puppy goes home, Citipups remains a resource, offering lifetime support and advice. Whether you need help adjusting to a new routine or have questions about nutrition and training, the team is always just a call or email away. Looking Ahead: A Bright Future in Bentonville As Bentonville continues to grow into one of America’s most exciting places to live and raise a family, Citipups is thrilled to be part of the journey. The new store represents more than a business move—it’s an invitation to a new generation of families to experience the joy, trust, and care that define Citipups. With a new storefront, an intuitive website, and the same deep-rooted values that have carried them, Citipups is once again raising the bar in the world of puppy placement. To learn more, visit www.citipups.com and follow the journey as Citipups begins a new chapter—right in the heart of Bentonville.

By Robert White, Editor-In-Chief In a world obsessed with constant communication, few stop to consider what might be missing from the conversation. Christine Miles , author of the award-winning book What Is It Costing You Not to Listen? , has built her life—and her career—around that very question. For Miles, listening isn’t just a skill. It’s a superpower. And most of us, she argues, have no idea how to use it. “I always say I’ve been selling air,” Miles laughs, referencing the fact that while communication is everywhere, true listening is rare. “It’s essential, but we take it for granted.” With a background in psychology and a powerful origin story rooted in personal experience, Miles brings uncommon empathy and clarity to her mission. Raised in Hershey, Pennsylvania, she grew up in what appeared to be an idyllic 1970s household. But beneath the surface was a different reality—her mother struggled with severe depression and anxiety following the loss of her own mother during childbirth. “As a kid, my role became understanding my mom’s pain,” Miles explains. “And while that was a heavy burden, it also gave me this incredible ability—to hear what wasn’t being said.” That early gift blossomed into a lifelong pursuit. Today, Miles is the founder of The Listening Path , a transformative communication training company that works with Fortune 500 companies, educators, and now even elementary school students to improve listening comprehension and emotional intelligence. According to research, employees absorb less than 25% of what customers and colleagues say—a deficit that costs businesses dearly in productivity, sales, and morale. Miles’ mission is to change that through practical, scalable education. Her book, What Is It Costing You Not to Listen? , is part memoir, part communication manual, and part rallying cry. It breaks down the myths of what listening really is—dispelling the notion that eye contact and nodding are enough—and offers a step-by-step path to becoming a better listener at work, at home, and within yourself. “Most people think they’re great listeners,” she notes. “Harvard Business Review says 96% of people believe that, but statistically, that can’t be true. It’s because we’ve never been properly taught.” That’s where The Listening Path  comes in. Christine and her team provide in-depth training programs for professionals, but more recently, they’ve developed a fully animated curriculum for classrooms. Her goal? To teach listening skills at the age of five, not 35. “We’re now in 20 classrooms across the U.S., Canada, and even Ireland,” she shares. “And the feedback from teachers has been incredible—minimal prep time, and students who are not just hearing, but truly understanding each other.” The initiative is growing fast, with a high school program on the way, a children’s book launching this summer, and plans to expand into more educational settings globally. For Miles, it all comes back to one core idea: understanding. “Listening isn’t just about being quiet—it’s about uncovering the story beneath the words, whether that’s from a client, a child, or yourself. And when you do that, relationships, performance, and even purpose come into sharper focus.” Christine Miles is the author of What Is It Costing You Not to Listen? and founder of The Listening Path. Learn more at christinemileslistens.com  and thelisteningpath.com . Listen to the full interview with Christine Miles on the Savoir Faire Audio Experience.

By Robert White, Editor-In-Chief Ben Basile is no stranger to holding down the low end. As the longtime bassist for ska-punk veterans Big D and the Kids Table, he’s spent over a decade energizing audiences across the globe with his signature groove and rhythmic finesse. But now, Basile is stepping into the spotlight with Benergy —his debut solo album arriving May 2nd via Sleep Walk Sounds. Named after a spur-of-the-moment comment from one of his bass students—“Benergy?” in response to Basile’s high-octane playing style—the title encapsulates the spirit of the record: grounded in rhythm, bursting with heart, and elevated by joyful momentum. “This record has been a long time coming,” says Basile, who composed, arranged, and played bass across all of Benergy’s  tracks. “It’s the first time I’ve really stepped out as a solo artist and bandleader. Every song tells a little story from my life.” That storytelling begins with “Mountain Road,” a bouncy, organ-rich track inspired by the very street he lives on in New York’s Hudson Valley. “I drove that road a dozen times while moving into my new place, and it felt like the rhythm of the drive just embedded itself into the song,” he says. The album's third single, “Cacao Knibb,”  pays tribute to two of Basile’s great loves: ska music and dark chocolate. The clever title nods to cacao nibs and legendary Skatalites drummer Lloyd Knibb, whose style helped define ska’s earliest sounds. Featuring co-producer Jon Degen on saxophone and a playful piano solo from longtime friend Sean Morrison, the track fuses Latin rhythms with classic ska grooves—showcasing Basile’s deep knowledge of the genre and his knack for musical fusion. But while Benergy  leans heavily into ska and jazz, it's far from a genre exercise. Tracks like “74 Leonard Street”  honor Basile’s formative years frequenting the Knitting Factory in Manhattan, while others—like “Dub 215” —emerged from spontaneous writing sessions, named simply after the date the track was born. “I love that even without lyrics, instrumental music can tell a story,” says Basile. “The bass might not be front and center on every track, but it’s the foundation. From there, I wrote the melodies, the horn parts, everything that builds upward.” A graduate of SUNY New Paltz with a degree in jazz studies, Basile’s musical education is as robust as his resume. He’s toured on six continents, played with legendary acts like Pilfers and the New York Ska-Jazz Ensemble, and founded the Poughkeepsie Jazz Project, providing an ongoing jam session for regional talent. When not on tour, he’s teaching the next generation of players or gigging with local favorites like In The Pocket and the Eric Puente Jazz Quartet. Benergy  was recorded at various studios across the East Coast and mastered by Tom Rosato of Zena Mastering, with each track reflecting a different corner of Basile’s musical world. From dub to jazz to bossa nova-inflected ska, the album is a sonic roadmap through his influences—and a tribute to the community that shaped him. “This album is a summer spinner,” Basile says. “Something you can throw on while driving with the windows down or cooking in the kitchen. It’s rooted in groove, but it's meant to make you feel good.” To celebrate the release of Benergy , Basile will embark on a short run of shows this June, including dates in Newark, Boston, Westfield, and his hometown of Poughkeepsie. The tour marks the first time he’ll perform a full night of his own music as a headlining artist. Benergy drops May 2nd on Sleep Walk Sounds. Stream the single “Cacao Knibb” now and pre-order the full album on vinyl at sleepwalksounds.limitedrun.com . For tour dates and more, visit benbasile.com . Listen to the full interview with Ben Basile on The Savoir Faire Audio Experience.

By Robert White , Editor-In-Chief Ella Beyer has already crafted a sound that carries the weight of wisdom and the raw ache of heartbreak. With her new single Crime to Be Happy  set for release on May 14, the Los Angeles-born singer-songwriter continues to solidify her voice as one of emotional clarity, poetic depth, and melodic grace. The ambient ballad opens with breathy instrumentation—pedal steel guitar, warm synth pads, and Ella’s haunting vocals—before unfolding into a fully realized arrangement that swells with cinematic ache. The track explores grief in the wake of betrayal, as Beyer sings, “I wish it was a crime to be happy,” lamenting the unjust emotional fallout of infidelity. Through waves of self-reflection and emotional release, she lands not in bitterness, but in a quietly powerful state of acceptance. “I wrote this song during a really emotional time,” Beyer explains. “It’s about being so heartbroken that you can’t bear the idea of the other person moving on and being happy—especially when you’re the one left holding the pain. It’s a really vulnerable song, and I think a lot of people will understand that feeling.” The track was written in 2023, initially sparked by a set of chords borrowed from Radiohead’s My Iron Lung . But what began as an inspired jam session quickly turned into one of Beyer’s most emotionally potent compositions to date. “I had this giant list of common phrases that I hadn’t seen used in songs yet,” she said. “When I got to ‘crime to be happy,’ it stuck. It felt like something people say offhand, but I wanted to flip it and show the depth that can hide behind a casual line.” Signed to Winding Way Records at just 17, Ella Beyer blends the sophistication of Carole King and the lyrical intimacy of Ingrid Michaelson. Her previous singles, including Oxygen , have explored themes of self-awareness and emotional restlessness. “I was in this phase of life where I kept booking flights and running from myself,” she said of Oxygen . “Eventually, I realized that no matter where I went, I couldn’t outrun what I was feeling.” Beyer’s music speaks directly to those in transition—whether it’s heartbreak, self-discovery, or simply growing up. She’s not afraid of the in-between spaces. In fact, she writes from them. Her upcoming EP, set to drop later in 2025, promises more of the same lyrical honesty and dreamy, genre-blurring textures that fans are beginning to associate with her sound. And while her resume already includes performances at iconic California venues like The Mint, Hotel Café, and House of Blues, Beyer is eyeing a mini tour this summer, with plans to hit stages in Nashville and New York. She’s also wrapping up her degree in songwriting at the Los Angeles College of Music, continuing a lifelong education in the craft—one that began in a home filled with rhythm and melody. Her father, a touring drummer for artists like Christopher Cross and Loggins & Messina, and her mother, a published songwriter with credits on shows like Dawson’s Creek , raised Ella in a world where music was both a passport and a lifeline. “Growing up, I saw music bring people together all over the world—regardless of language or culture,” Beyer reflects. “That’s what I want to do. I want people to hear my songs and feel like someone gets them.” With Crime to Be Happy , Ella Beyer offers a mirror for anyone who’s ever suffered in silence, a voice for those tangled in grief and grace—and a reminder that vulnerability is its own kind of power. “Crime to Be Happy” is out May 14 on all streaming platforms via Winding Way Records. Learn more at ellabeyermusic.com . L isten to the full interview with Ella Beyer on The Savoir Faire Audio Experience.

By Robert White , Editor-In-Chief When Suzanne Fontaine moved to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, she dreamed of easygoing beach days—sun, surf, a good book, and nothing but time. But the dream quickly met a sandy reality: lugging a heavy lounge chair, overloaded beach bag, and picnic supplies through the coastal heat was anything but relaxing. Her solution? Playamigo—a sleek, lightweight, all-in-one lounger that’s redefining the way we do outdoor leisure. “I just wanted one thing that could carry all my stuff, and still give me something comfortable to lean on when I got there,” Fontaine said. “I couldn’t find it, so I started sketching. That’s when Playamigo was born.” A seasoned nonprofit executive with two decades of leadership experience—including roles at St. Louis Children’s Hospital and Susan G. Komen Missouri—Fontaine never expected to pivot into product design and entrepreneurship. But after relocating during the pandemic and discovering a gap in the market, she channeled her creativity into a functional, fashion-forward innovation. Playamigo combines the storage of a backpack with the support of a reclining lounger. Weighing under five pounds, it features an alloy steel frame to provide structure, an integrated ground mat for stability, and an open interior compartment roomy enough to stash a towel, book, picnic, and more. “I once packed an entire beach birthday party in mine—cake, champagne, the works,” Fontaine laughed. Designed with versatility in mind, Playamigo is as at home in the park as it is on the sand. Its wedge-shaped profile makes it perfect for outdoor concerts, festivals, and picnics, and it can be carried as a backpack, crossbody, or shoulder bag. Three colorways—Agua, Mandarina, and Marina—offer style options for every personality. But building a physical product from scratch is no small feat. With no formal background in manufacturing or industrial design, Fontaine learned every step herself. “I found an industrial designer on Upwork and worked with him for almost a year,” she said. “We went through samples, adjusted measurements, sourced materials, and worked closely with a factory in China to bring it to life.” Now fully operational and available for nationwide shipping at theplayamigo.com , Playamigo is gaining traction with customers seeking functional, design-forward gear for the great outdoors. Fontaine is currently focused on building awareness, expanding into retail, and showcasing the product at public events—including a full summer sponsorship of the Music Under the Stars  concert series in Missouri. “Educating people is key,” she said. “When someone tries it, they get it. But until then, I have to show them how Playamigo changes the whole outdoor experience. It’s not just a chair—it’s freedom to relax without the hassle.” With every stitch and steel frame, Playamigo is not only a solution to a problem but a testament to resilience, vision, and entrepreneurial spirit. As Fontaine puts it, “We built this from an idea on a beach towel—and now it’s out there making people’s lives easier.” Playamigo retails for $99 and is available now at theplayamigo.com  with free shipping in the U.S. For updates and outdoor inspiration, follow @theplayamigo on Instagram and Facebook. Listen to the full interview with Suzanne Fontaine on The Savoir Faire Audio Experience

By Robert White , Editor-In-Chief In a city synonymous with twang and tradition, secondSELF is a much-needed detour—a full-throttle punk trio challenging the musical norms of Nashville with unapologetic energy and a sharp political edge. With their debut album The Current Dissent  set to drop May 23 via Punkerton Records, the band is positioning themselves as a voice for the disillusioned and the defiant. Formed over five years ago in the quieter corners of Music City’s punk undercurrent, secondSELF emerged not from the glitter of neon or polished studios, but from garage sessions and grassroots grit. “It was just a garage endeavor at first,” says guitarist and vocalist Nate Benardino. “We were three guys bonded by punk rock, not chasing fame, just chasing the sound.” That sound—fast, raw, melodic, and seething with urgency—was quickly solidified during a breakout club performance at Punk Rock Bowling in Las Vegas. There, they connected with Brandon from Punkerton Records, who signed them following the band’s studio work with Matt Yonker of Less Than Jake. The result is The Current Dissent , a record that doesn’t pull punches. From its blistering title track to the latest single “Grape Soda and Gasoline,” secondSELF trades in heavy riffs and heavier truths. “It’s a window into our views about our insatiable appetite for consumerism and those that profit from the consumption,” Benardino explains of the new single. “It’s about the excess we’ve normalized and the divide it’s created.” The band’s music channels both personal experiences and societal observations. “Most of the songs on this album were born out of real life—our frustrations, the political climate, what we see and feel every day,” Benardino says. “It’s not always intentional. It just pours out of us.” Their approach to songwriting is equally fluid. Some tracks are collaborative efforts built on shared riffs, while others arrive fully formed—like lightning bolts from a bottle of righteous rage. “There’s no formula to it,” Benardino adds. “Each song has its own identity.” The band’s name, secondSELF , might not have started with deep intention, but it's taken on meaning with time. “It felt right—like a version of ourselves that we live through when we’re making music,” says Benardino. “A kind of alter ego that tells the truth a little louder.” For a band that thrives in the margins of a genre-dominated town, secondSELF has built something entirely their own. Their DIY ethos, paired with powerful messaging and stage presence, is turning heads—and bringing punk back to a city better known for pedal steel than power chords. The Current Dissent  drops May 23, with an official release show at the Punk Rock Saves Lives / Punk Rock Hoe Down event in Las Vegas on May 22. A hometown celebration follows at The Cobra in Nashville on June 14, a venue Benardino calls “the heart of the punk scene” in Music City. secondSELF’s debut album The Current Dissent is available for pre-order now at punkertonrecords.com . Stream their latest single “Grape Soda and Gasoline” on all major platforms. Listen to the full interview with Nate Benardino on The Savoir Faire Audio Experience